ANEURYSM FORMATION IN MODIFIED HUMAN UMBILICAL VEIN GRAFTS

Objectives: Aneurysm formation in Human Umbilical Vein Grafts has been reported to be as high as 65% after 5 years. One of the causes might be the structure of the Biograft-wall and in 1985 a new method of processing the graft was begun. In Groningen this new improved Biograft has been used since late 1986. Design: Duplex scanning was used to examine the frequency of aneurysm formation in the new improved Biograft. Materials: Sixty-nine patent Biografts have been examined in a period up to 6 years after implantation. Main Results: Aneurysms were found in only 17% of grafts although the frequency increased with time. Dilatation was common but may be due to a more elastic graft. Conclusion: These findings justify the continued use of the new Biograft as a substitute for arterial femoropopliteal reconstructions.