Light and electron microscopic studies of an antibiotic bonded vascular graft

Polytetrafluoroethylene grafts were bonded to oxacillin with the cationic surfactant, benzalkonium chloride. Grafts were placed in the canine aorta and harvested six and twelve weeks after implantation. Light and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were performed in all specimens. No histological differences could be demonstrated between control and antibiotic bonded grafts. Significant antibacterial activity was demonstrated at the time of graft implantation. However, none remained six and twelve weeks later.