[Arterial grafts]

After a historical review, pointing out the different types of grafts (tubes, veins, arteries, synthetic material), several haemodynamics facts are commented, that in author's opinion, are closely related with biological process of "neo-intima" development. Technical aspects are evaluated, including extra-anatomical by-pass, infection risk, and proposed solutions when run-off problems occurred when placing a graft, concluding with modern guidances when using this material, such as endotheliation, cryopreserved artery grafts, polyurethane and pyrolytic carbon grafts, negatively charged grafts, biodegradation prosthesis, laboratory artery development, small diameter grafts and endovascular surgery.