Perspective: options in managing aortic graft infections

Thoracic aortic graft infections are infrequent, but are associated with high mortality and morbidity risk. To prevent these life-threatening infections, one must be aware of pathogenesis. When it occurs, a multidisciplinary (surgeon, radiologist, microbiologist, nuclear specialist, infectiologist, anesthesiologist, intensive care specialist) cascade must be initiated. A fast and accurate diagnosis using diagnostic criteria is vital. The appropriate treatment consists of a combination of antibiotics and surgery. Whether or not the vascular prosthesis is preserved depends on a case-by-case basis (tailor-made). Several graft preservation strategies have proven their effectiveness.