The Versatility of Gore Tex® Grafts for Extra-Anatomic Bypass

Fifty six patients underwent fifty nine complex extra-anatomic revascular ization procedures using Gore Tex®. Nine grafts (15%) occluded. We opted not to revise 2 grafts and other two grafts thrombectomized ultimately failed. Five grafts were declotted and have remained patent.The other patients have patent grafts or died of their primary illness with patent grafts (overall patency 93%). The surviving patients have been followed for an average period of 27.7 months (0.5-56 mo.).Based on this experience we conclude that Gore Tex®, is a suitable conduit for complex extra-anatomic bypass in patients whose condition contraindicates direct vascular reconstruction.