Surgical excision of infected arteriovenous grafts: technique and review

Eugene P Ceppa1, Bantayehu Sileshi, Georgia M Beasley

  • 1Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA.

Insights

Infected hemodialysis grafts pose serious risks. This study details total graft excision techniques and reviews literature on partial, subtotal, and total excision methods for infected arteriovenous grafts.

Area of Science:

  • Vascular Surgery
  • Infectious Disease Management
  • Nephrology

Background:

  • Infected prosthetic arteriovenous grafts are a significant complication for hemodialysis patients.
  • Prompt and effective management is crucial to prevent morbidity and mortality.

Observation:

  • The study presents five recent cases of infected arteriovenous grafts.
  • The authors describe their specific technique for complete graft removal.

Findings:

  • The paper reviews existing literature on the management of infected grafts.
  • It discusses the controversial roles of partial, subtotal, and total graft excision.

Implications:

  • The findings contribute to understanding optimal surgical strategies for infected hemodialysis grafts.
  • This research aids clinicians in managing graft infections and improving patient outcomes.