Endovascular recanalization of the superior mesenteric artery in the context of mesenteric bypass graft infection

Mesenteric prosthetic graft infection is a rare and challenging clinical scenario. A patient is described who developed recurrent abdominal pain after occlusion of an iliomesenteric prosthetic bypass. Endovascular recanalization of the native superior mesenteric artery, which had been occluded for more than 10 years, was accomplished using axillofemoral through-wire access and a steerable guiding catheter. The infected prosthetic was then explanted and his graft-enteric fistula repaired. Technical and strategic considerations are discussed. (J Vasc Surg 2013;57:1398-400.)