POLYTETRAFLUOROETHYLENE (PTFE) GRAFTS FOR HAEMODIALYSIS IN CHRONIC RENAL FAILURE: ASSESSMENT OF DURABILITY AND FUNCTION AT THREE YEARS

Abstract

The utilization of 162 PTFE [polytetrafluoroethylene] grafts for angio access in 131 patients over a 3 yr period is reported. New PTFE arterio-venous fistulae (103) were constructed in addition to 59 patch and tube incorporations into pre-existing graft fistulae. At 3 yr, the cumulative patency of newly constructed grafts was 85%. Of the grafts, 74% had no thrombosis and functioned up to 38 mo. following insertion. An aggressive approach was adopted towards 15% of the grafts that had at least 1 episode of thrombosis prior to flow being successfuly restored. Graft occlusion which occurred up to 18 mo. following insertion, represented 11% of the group in this series. PTFE provides an important advance in angio access for chronic renal failure with high patency and excellent durability after 3 yr.