Polytetrafluoroethylene and bovine mesenterial vein grafts for hemodialysis access: a comparative study.
OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to evaluate the safety and patency rate of bovine mesenterial vein grafts (BMVG) for vascular access (VA) in hemodialysis patients (HDP), compared to expanded polytetrafluorethylene (ePTFE grafts) over a mid- to long-term period.


METHODS
Patency and complication rate of 23 consecutive HDP with BMVG for VA were compared to a control group consisting of 23 similar HDP with ePTFE grafts. In both groups, the graft was placed preferably in a forearm loop configuration. The same surgeon performed all procedures. All patients were followed over a period of 4 yrs.


RESULTS
Graft placement was successful in all patients. Patency rates did not differ significantly in both groups. However, there were less severe complications in the BMVG group.


CONCLUSIONS
The BMVG is a viable alternative for HD access in patients where autologous construction is not possible, and should be given priority in patients with a failed ePTFE graft or high risk for infection.
Tahami
V B
VB
Departement of Surgery, Kantonsspital, Fribourg, Switzerland.
Hakki
H
H
Reber
P U
PU
Widmer
M K
MK
Kniemeyer
H W
HW
D000368:Aged; D000818:Animals; D001166:Arteriovenous Shunt, Surgical / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D002417:Cattle; D003428:Cross Infection / Q000209:etiology; D005260:Female; D005465:Fluorocarbon Polymers / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008642:Mesenteric Veins / Q000601:surgery; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D006435:Renal Dialysis / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D018805:Sepsis / Q000209:etiology / Q000401:mortality
D005465:Fluorocarbon Polymers; C010946:polytetrafluoroethane