Long-term follow-up of autologous vein grafts. 40 years after reconstruction for cystic adventitial disease.

Long term follow-up (38-41 years postoperatively) has been undertaken in three patients who were initially operated on with autologous reversed vein grafts due to cystic adventitial disease of the popliteal artery. The patients were evaluated clinically as well as with colour coded ultrasonography and phase-locked echo-tracking ultrasonography. One vein graft was occluded, the others were patent, without dilatation and with a compliance similar to that in the femoral artery. Autologous vein grafts below the groin are very durable.