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Australian multicentre evaluation of a new polyurethane vascular access graft.

BACKGROUND
A new three-layered cast polyurethane vascular access graft (Thoratec VAG) is the most recent addition to the list of materials used in the search for the perfect prosthetic graft material for haemodialysis vascular access. Despite its use in 23 countries, a clinical assessment has not been published.


METHODS
An independent retrospective evaluation by questionnaire was obtained for 145 implantation procedures performed by 30 surgeons.


RESULTS
Ninety-two per cent of procedures were performed for an acute need for vascular access and 73% had prior failed vascular access surgery. Patients were hospitalized for a median of 4 days and the graft was initially used at a median of 3 days. Median follow-up was 306 days. Thoratec VAG had a problem-free (primary) patency of 44.9% and a functional (secondary) patency 64.5% at 1 year. Major causes of graft loss were thrombosis (17%) and infection (11%). Intra-operative thrombosis was the only significant risk factor for subsequent thrombosis (P = 0.013). Infection was less in patients with antibiotic prophylaxis that included vancomycin (P = 0.02).


CONCLUSION
The ability to use the graft soon after surgery is a major advance for patients who urgently need reliable medium to long-term haemodialysis access.