ABSTRACT
The development of biomaterials to replace or bypass diseased arterial segments has revolutionized the management of arterial disease. Although the search for the ideal conduit continues, present-day grafts have proven to be durable alternatives with acceptable patency for the treatment of both aneurysmal and occlusive disease in the peripheral circulation. Their usage has allowed successful revascularization operations in numerous patients who otherwise would have suffered loss of life or limb. Vascular surgical graft infection is among the most feared complications that the vascular surgeon faces, often resulting in prolonged hospitalization, multiple operations, and removal of the graft with resulting organ failure, amputation, and death. This chapter focuses on the epidemiology of vascular graft infection, reviews the most common pathogens, explores the theories of pathogenesis, and suggests practical strategies for the prevention of this ominous complication.
