MANAGEMENT OF SEPSIS INVOLVING EXPANDED POLYTETRAFLUOROETHYLENE GRAFTS FOR HEMODIALYSIS ACCESS

Abstract

The incidence and management of [human] infections in 80 polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) grafts is reviewed. In a follow-up period of 12-30 mo., the overall incidence of infection was 19%. In functioning grafts the majority of infections occurred after dialysis puncture or reoperation. With appropriate management, by incision, drainage and packing of wounds with povidone-I solution, it was possible, even in the face of positive blood cultures, to treat 4 of 5 localized infections successfully without loss of graft function. Prophylactic antibiotics may be useful in reducing the high incidence of infection associated with secondary operations.