Remnant Prosthetic Graft in Revision or Limb-Salvage Surgery: Routine Complete Excision?

Remnant prosthetic grafts left in situ are shown in this series to be a proven nidus for infection. Published data indicate that these infection rates are greatest in revision vascular surgery and when performing amputations. We propose that routine excision of any occluded remnant prosthetic grafts in revision surgery be considered at the time of revascularization to mitigate against the risk of subsequent infection.