Outcome of ProCol, a bovine mesenteric vein graft, in infrainguinal reconstruction

Objectives: historically infrainguinal reconstruction using heterogenous grafts has given poor results due to degradation and aneurysmal dilatation of the graft. A recently introduced heterogenous graft, the ProCol (bovine mesenteric vein) graft, may yield improved results. There are no published reports with respect to ProCol in infrainguinal reconstruction and hence we have reviewed our initial experience with this graft. Methods: retrospective analysis of six patients in whom infrainguinal reconstruction with ProCol was undertaken between March and August 2001. Results: the primary patency rate was 0% at 3 months, with grafts failing between 4 and 113 days. Two grafts underwent aneurysmal dilatation. Conclusion: we are unable to recommend use of the ProCol graft in infrainguinal reconstruction.