The use of an absorbable collagen cover (NeuraWrap) improves patency of interpositional vein grafts

Autologous interpositional vein grafts are used in peripheral arterial bypass procedures. Sudden exposure of vein grafts to arterial blood pressure is associated with increased wall tension leading to overdistension of the graft and changes in flow patterns. Overdistension of vein grafts often results in anastomotic leaks, thrombosis, and loss of patency. This study was designed to evaluate the use of a biodegradable collagen cover as a means of preventing overdistension of venous bypass grafts in a rat model.