Vascular access for cancer chemotherapy

Abstract

Eleven bovine heterografts were utilized in the repetitive administration of chemotherapy in 10 patients with insufficient vascular access. Six grafts remained patent until the time of death and five grafts clotted from 71 to 1110 days postoperatively. Three patients are alive and well. All grafts were initially patent and no wound infections resulted. The bovine heterograft appears to be a useful adjunct for securing vascular access for patients requiring cancer chemotherapy.