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7032737 
Journal Article 
The role of vein grafts in peripheral vascular disease and carotid artery disease 
Walter, J; Magometschnigg, H; , 
2007 
Yes 
European Surgery
ISSN: 1682-8631
EISSN: 1682-4016 
SPRINGER WIEN 
WIEN 
76-82 
WOS:000256864100003 
Background: Peripheral bypass surgery has become a widely used and beneficial treatment in patients with peripheral arterial occlusive disease.Methods: Review of the literature.Results: Even though prosthetic bypass grafts are being constantly refined, vein grafts are still unsurpassed in terms of safety and efficacy for almost all indications. In order to assure long-term benefit for the patient, postoperative surveillance and concomitant medical treatment are important.Carotid endarterectomy has been performed extensively to reduce the risk of stroke from carotid artery disease. Vein grafts play a prominent role, but controversy still exists about the optimal type of patch for arteriotomy closure. Recent systematic reviews suggest that there are small, if any, differences between vein and prosthetic patches.Conclusions: Despite constant improvement of prosthetic vascular graft materials, autologous vein grafts are still of eminent importance in modern vascular surgery.