Stretch expanded polytetrafluoroethylene graft with intrawall radial support system: an advance in vascular access...

Vascular access expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) grafts with external support systems consisting of parallel rings or in a spiral configuration are designed to resist kinking and compression at the apex of loop grafts or when crossing a joint. However, during the implantation procedure, the rings or spiral must be removed from the portion of the graft that is cut to allow the graft to be divided at the desired angle and suture the anastomosis. A new ePTFE graft (Intering) with an intrawall radial support system and a smooth lumen permits easy division of the support segments at the chosen angle. Moreover, minimal resistance is encountered during suturing of the graft. The results of early experience with Intering grafts crossing the elbow joint, in short-segment revisions, and in primary forearm loop configurations are encouraging.