Let it be: Salvage of exposed hemodialysis grafts with fasciocutaneous island flaps

Contaminated and exposed prosthetic implants have traditionally required surgical explantation. This has been standard treatment, particularly for implants in the central circulation or those bridging major vascular structures, such as hemodialysis grafts. We present our experience in salvaging exposed hemodialysis grafts utilizing regional fascio‐ and septo‐cutaneous flaps. In 5 of 6 cases, graft salvage was achieved, obviating the need for explantation and de novo insertion at another location. In selected instances of hemodialysis graft exposure, wound coverage and graft function can be obtained with regionally based flaps. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.