Computed tomography in aortobifemoral Y grafts

Abstract

The fact that we have experience in assessing aortic aneurysms and the need for a noninvasive morphologic and hemodynamic method of examination for the follow-up of aortoiliac surgery motivated us to initiate a dynamic CT study of bifurcation prosthesis. Twenty-seven Y grafts (25 Dacron, 2 polytetrafluoroethylene) were studied by CT scan 1 month to 7 years postoperatively. There were normal CT findings in 16 patients, neointima formation in 6, graft occlusion (1 limb of the Y graft) in 3, and dilatation of the prosthesis in 2. Patent grafts showed enhancement of contrast medium. CT scans corresponded to clinical findings in all instances. Because of its noninvasiveness, assessment of perivascular changes, and semiquantitative measurements, dynamic CT may be applied in the follow-up of aortofemoral bifurcation grafts.