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Aneurysm formation in modified human umbilical vein grafts
R Strobel1, A H Boontje, J J Van Den Dungen
1Department of Surgery, University Hospital Groningen, The Netherlands.
Summary
The new Biograft shows a significant reduction in aneurysm formation, with only 17% of grafts affected. This improved graft material is suitable for femoropopliteal arterial reconstructions.
Area of Science:
- Vascular surgery
- Biomaterials science
Background:
- Human Umbilical Vein Grafts (HUVS) have a high reported aneurysm formation rate (up to 65% at 5 years).
- Potential causes include the structural properties of the graft wall.
- A new processing method for Biografts was introduced in 1985, with improved versions used in Groningen since late 1986.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the frequency of aneurysm formation in the new, improved Biograft.
- To assess the long-term performance of this modified vascular graft.
Main Methods:
- Duplex scanning was employed to examine aneurysm development.
- Sixty-nine patent Biografts were analyzed up to 6 years post-implantation.
Main Results:
- Aneurysms were observed in only 17% of the examined grafts.
- Aneurysm frequency demonstrated an increase over time.
- Graft dilatation was a common finding, potentially linked to increased graft elasticity.
Conclusions:
- The findings support the continued use of the new Biograft.
- The improved Biograft is a viable substitute for arterial femoropopliteal reconstructions.