Cryopreserved arterial homografts vs silver-coated Dacron grafts for abdominal aortic infections with intraoperative evidence of microorganisms

Analysis of antibiotic strategies to prevent vascular graft or endograft infection after surgical treatment for infective native aortic aneurysms: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Some patients with an infective native aortic aneurysm (INAA) develop an aortic vascular graft or endograft infection (VGEI) even after successful open surgical repair or endovascular intervention. The aim of the systematic review and meta-analysis performed herein was to compare the clinical outcomes of different surgical and antibiotic treatment strategies.

METHODS

We systematically searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science. The keywords used for the search were "mycotic aortic aneurysm", "infected aortic aneurysm", "infective native aortic aneurysm", "antibiotics", "surgery", and "endovascular". The search was limited to articles written in English and to studies involving humans. Articles published before 2000 were excluded. Case reports and review articles were excluded.

RESULTS

Of the 524 studies retrieved from our search of the databases, 47 articles were included in this study. Among the 47 articles (1546 patients, 72.8% of whom were male) retrieved, five articles were excluded from the subgroup analysis because the data concerning open surgical repair and endovascular intervention could not be separated. The remaining 42 articles included a total of 1179 patients who underwent open surgical repair (622 patients) or endovascular intervention (557 patients) for INAA. There was a statistically significant difference (p = 0.001) in the pooled in-hospital mortality rate between the open surgical repair group (13.2%, 82/622) and the endovascular intervention group (7.2%, 40/557). However, there was a statistically significant difference (p < 0.001) in the aortic VGEI rate between the open surgical repair group (5.4%). 29/540) and endovascular intervention (13.3%, 69/517) group. For patients who underwent open surgical repair, a lower rate of aortic vascular graft infection was associated with long-term antibiotic use (p = 0.005). For patients who underwent endovascular intervention, there was a trend of association (p = 0.071) between the lower rate of aortic endograft infection and lifelong antibiotic use.

CONCLUSION

Infective native aortic aneurysms are life-threatening. The pooled in-hospital mortality rate of the open surgical repair group was significantly higher than that of the endovascular intervention group, whereas the rate of the aortic VGEI in the open surgical repair group was significantly lower than that in the endovascular intervention group. Regardless of whether open surgical repair or endovascular intervention is performed, better long-term outcomes can be achieved with aggressive antibiotic treatment, which is especially important for patients who undergo endovascular intervention.

The Fate of the Aorta after Coarctation Repair: Open Surgical Replacement of Descending Aorta in a High-Volume Unit

Objectives: Complications after aortic coarctation repair are associated with high mortality and require surgical or endovascular reintervention. For patients unsuitable for endovascular therapies, reoperation remains the only therapeutic option. However, surgical experience and up-to-date follow-up data concerning this overall rare entity in the spectrum of aortic reoperations are still highly limited. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the short-term outcomes and long-term survival of patients undergoing surgical descending aorta repair after previous coarctation repair in a high-volume unit. Methods: We present a retrospective single-center analysis of 25 patients who underwent open descending aorta replacement after initial coarctation repair. The surgical history, concomitant cardiovascular malformations, and preoperative characteristics as well as postoperative complications and long-term survival were analyzed. Results: The mean age at operation was 45.4 ± 12.8 years. A proportion of 68% (n = 17) of the patients were male. The most common complication necessitating reoperation after coarctation repair was aneurysm formation (68%) and re-stenosis (16%). The average time between initial repair and reoperation was 26.3 ± 9.9 years. Technical success was achieved in all the operations, while recurrent nerve damage (24%) and bleeding requiring rethoracotomy (20%) were identified as the most common perioperative complications. The one-year mortality was 0% and the overall long-term survival was 88% at 15 years. Conclusions: Open surgical descending aorta replacement can be performed safely and with excellent survival outcomes even in the challenging subgroup of patients after previous coarctation repair. Thus, reoperation should be considered a feasible approach for patients who are unsuitable for endovascular therapies. Nonetheless, concomitant cardiovascular anomalies and frequent preoperations may complicate the redo operation in this patient population.

Contemporary outcomes for arterial reconstruction with non-saphenous vein cryo-preserved conduits

OBJECTIVE

Cryopreserved (CP) products are utilized during challenging cases when autogenous or prosthetic conduit use is not feasible. Despite decades of experience with cadaveric greater saphenous vein (GSV), there is limited available data regarding the outcomes and patency of other CP products, specifically arterial and deep venous grafts. This study was designed to evaluate outcomes of non-GSV CP conduits in patients undergoing urgent, emergent, and elective arterial reconstruction at our institution. We hypothesized that non-GSV CP allografts have adequate patency and outcomes and are therefore a feasible alternative to GSV in settings where autologous graft is unavailable or prosthetic grafts are contraindicated.

METHODS

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at our institution. We retrospectively reviewed charts of patients undergoing arterial reconstructions using CP conduits from 2010 to 2022. Data collected included demographics, comorbidities, smoking status, indications for surgery, indication for CP conduit use, anatomic reconstruction, urgency of procedure, and blood loss. Time-to-event outcomes included primary and secondary graft patency rates, follow-up amputations, and mortality; other complications included follow-up infection/reinfection and 30-day complications, including return to the operating room and perioperative mortality. Time-to-event analyses were evaluated using product-limit survival estimates.

RESULTS

Of 96 identified patients receiving CP conduits, 56 patients received non-GSV conduits for 66 arterial reconstructions. The most common type of non-GSV CP product used was femoral artery (31 patients), followed by aorto-iliac artery (22 patients), and femoral vein (19 patients), with some patients receiving more than one reconstruction or CP product. Patients were mostly male (75%), with a mean age of 63.1 years and a mean body mass index of 26.7 kg/m2. Indications for CP conduit use included infection in 53 patients, hostile environment in 36 patients, contaminated field in 30 patients, tissue coverage concerns in 30 patients, inadequate conduit in nine patients, and patient preference in one patient. Notably, multiple patients had more than one indication. Most surgeries (95%) were performed in urgent or emergent settings. Supra-inguinal reconstructions were most common (53%), followed by extra-anatomic bypasses (47%). Thirty-day mortality occurred in 10 patients (19%). Fifteen patients (27%) required return to the operating room for indications related to the vascular reconstructions, with 10 (18%) cases being unplanned and five (9%) cases planned/staged. Overall survival at 6, 12, and 24 months was 80%, 68%, and 59%, respectively. Primary patency at 6, 12, and 24 months was 86%, 70%, and 62%, respectively. Amputation freedom at 6 months, 12 months, and 24 months was 98%, 95%, and 86%, respectively for non-traumatic indications.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-GSV CP products may be used in complex arterial reconstructions when autogenous or prosthetic options are not feasible or available.

Early and late outcomes of surgical repair of mycotic aortic aneurysms: A 30-year experience

OBJECTIVE

Mycotic aortic aneurysm and its associated complications are often catastrophic. In this study, we examined the early and late outcomes of surgical repair of mycotic aortic aneurysm at our center over the last 3 decades.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed our prospectively maintained aortic surgery database with supplemental adjudication of medical records. Aortic infection was confirmed through clinical, radiological, intraoperative, pathological, and treatment evidence.

RESULTS

Seventy-five patients (median age, 68 years; interquartile range, 62-74) who underwent surgical repair of a mycotic aortic aneurysm between 1992 and 2021 were included. Almost all patients (n = 72; 96%) presented with symptoms, including 26 patients (35%) with rupture, and many underwent urgent or emergency repair (n = 64; 85%). Sixty-one patients underwent open repair, and 14 patients underwent hybrid or endovascular repair. Infection-specific adjunct techniques included rifampin-soaked grafts (n = 16), omental pedicle flaps (n = 21), and antibiotic irrigation catheters (n = 8). There were 15 early deaths (20%), including 10 of the 26 patients (38%) who presented with rupture; however, persistent stroke, paraplegia or paraparesis, and renal failure necessitating dialysis were uncommon (each <5%). Almost all early survivors (52/60; 87%) were discharged with long-term antibiotic therapy. Estimated survival at 2, 6, and 10 years was 55.7% ± 5.8%, 39.0% ± 5.7%, and 26.9% ± 5.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

A substantial proportion of patients with mycotic aortic aneurysm present with rupture and generally require urgent or emergency repair. Operative mortality and complications are common, especially for patients who present with rupture, and late survival is poor.

Cryopreserved Arterial Allografts Versus Rifampin-Soaked Dacron for the Treatment of Infected Aortic and Iliac Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

Infected aortic and iliac artery aneurysms are challenging to treat. Cryopreserved arterial allografts (CAAs) or rifampin-soaked Dacron (RSD) are standard options for in situ reconstruction. Our aim was to compare the safety and effectiveness of CAA versus RSD for these complex pathologies.

METHODS

This is a retrospective review of infected iliac, abdominal, and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms treated with either CAAs or RSD between 2002 and 2022 at our institution. The diagnosis was confirmed by intraoperative, radiologic, or microbiological evidence of aortic infection. Perioperative events, 30-day and long-term mortality, reinfection, and reintervention were analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty patients (17 CAA, 13 RSD) with a mean age of 61 and 68 years, respectively, were identified. The infected aneurysm was most commonly suprarenal or infrarenal. Culture-negative infections were present in 47% of the CAA group and 54% in the RSD group. Early major morbidity was 57% and 54% for the CAA and RSD, respectively. Thirty-day mortality was similar between groups (18% vs. 23% CAA vs. RSD, P ≥ 0.99). Median follow-up was longer in the RSD group (14.5 months vs. 13 months). Overall survival at 1 and 5 years was 80.8% and 64.8% in the CAA group and 69.2% and 57.7% in the RSD group. Reinterventions only occurred with CAA repairs and indications included graft occlusion (2), multiple pseudoaneurysms and reinfection (1), and hemorrhagic shock caused by graft rupture (1). Freedom from reintervention at 1 and 3 years was 87.5% and 79.5% (CAA group) versus 100% and 100% (RSD, P = 0.06). Freedom from reinfection at 1 year was 100% in both groups, while at 3 years it was 90.9% for the CAA group and 100% for the RSD group (P = 0.39).

CONCLUSIONS

Infected aortic and iliac aneurysms have high early morbidity and mortality. CAA and RSD had similar outcomes in our series; CAA trended toward higher reintervention rates. Both remain viable options for complex scenarios but require close surveillance.

Performance of the BioIntegral Bovine Pericardial Graft in Vascular Infections: VASCular No-REact Graft Against INfection Study

BACKGROUND

Vascular graft and endograft infections (VGEI) and native vessel infections (NVI) remain considerable challenges in vascular surgery, leading to high mortality and morbidity rates. Although in situ reconstruction is the preferred treatment, the material of choice is still a source of debate. Autologous veins are considered the first choice; however, xenografts may be an acceptable alternative. The performance of a biomodified bovine pericardial graft is assessed when implemented in an infected vascular area.

METHODS

This is a prospective multicenter cohort study. Patients who underwent reconstruction for VGEI or NVI with a biomodified bovine pericardial bifurcated or straight tube graft were included from December 2017 until June 2021. The primary outcome measure was reinfection at mid-term follow-up. Secondary outcome measures included mortality, patency, and amputation rate.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients with vascular infections were included, of which 23 (68%) had an infected Dacron prosthesis after primary open repair and 8 (24%) had an infected endovascular graft. The remaining 3 (9%) had infected native vessels. At secondary repair, 3 (7%) patients had an in situ aortic tube reconstruction, 29 (66%) had an aortic bifurcated reconstruction, and 2 (5%) had an iliac-femoral reconstruction. At 1-year follow-up after the BioIntegral bovine pericardial graft reconstruction, the reinfection rate was 9%. The 1-year infection-related and procedure-related mortality rate was 16%. The occlusion rate was 6% and in total 3 patients underwent a lower limb amputation during the 1-year follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

In situ reconstruction as treatment of (endo)graft and native vessel infections remains a challenge and reinfection looms as a potential consequence. In cases where time is of essence or when autologous venous repair is not feasible, a swift available solution is needed. The BioIntegral biomodified bovine pericardial graft may be an option as it shows reasonable results in terms of reinfection, in aortic tube and bifurcated grafts.

Reconstruction of primary and secondary aortic infections with an antimicrobial graft

INTRODUCTION

In situ reconstruction (ISR) with autologous veins is the preferred method in infectious native aortic aneurysms (INAAs) or vascular (endo)graft infection (VGEI). However, access to biological substitutes can prove difficult and lacks versatility. This study evaluates survival and freedom from reinfection after ISR of INAA/VGEI using the antimicrobial Intergard Synergy graft combining silver and triclosan.

METHODS

From February 2014 to April 2020, 86 antimicrobial grafts were implanted for aortic infection. The diagnosis of INAA/VGEI and reinfection was established based on the Management of Aortic Graft Infection Collaboration criteria. Survival was analyzed using the Kaplan-Meier method and log-rank P values.

RESULTS

The antimicrobial graft was implanted in 32 cases of INAA, 28 of VGI, and 26 of VEI. The median age was 69.0 (interquartile range: 62.0; 74.0), with a history of coronary artery disease (n = 21; 24.4%), chronic kidney disease (n = 11; 12.8%), cancer (n = 21; 24.4%), and immunosuppression (n = 27; 31.4%). Imaging showed infiltration (n = 14; 16.3%), air (n = 10; 11.6%), and rupture (n = 16; 18.6% including 22 aortoenteric fistulae [AEnF]). Symptoms included fever (n = 37; 43.0%), shock (n = 11; 12.8%), and pain (n = 47; 54.7%). Repair was undertaken through a midline laparotomy in 75 cases (87.2%) and coeliac cross-clamping in 19 (22.1%), suprarenal in 26 (30.2%), plus celiac trunk (n = 3), mesenteric (n = 5), renal (n = 13), or hypogastric (n = 4) artery reconstruction, and omental flap coverage (n = 41; 48.8%). For AEnF, the gastrointestinal tract was repaired using direct suture (n = 14; 16.3%) or resection anastomosis (n = 8; 9.3%). Causative organisms were identified in 74 patients (86.0%), with polymicrobial infection in 32 (37.2%) and fungal coinfection in 7 (8.1%). Thirty-day and in-hospital mortality were 14.0% and 22.1% (n = 12 and 19, respectively, 3 INAA [9.4%], 7 VGI [25.0%], and 9 VEI [34.6%]). Seventy patients (81.4%) had a postoperative complication, 44 (51.2%) of whom returned to the operative room. The 1- and 2-year survival rates were 74.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 63.3-82.1) and 69.8% (95% CI: 58.5-78.5), respectively. Survival was significantly better for INAA vs VGEI (P = .01) and worse for AEnF (P = .001). Freedom from reinfection was 97.2% (95% CI: 89.2-99.3) and 95.0% (95% CI: 84.8-98.4) with six reinfections (7.0%) requiring two radiological/six surgical drainage and two graft removals. Primary patency was 88.0% (95% CI: 78.1-93.6) and 79.9% (95% CI: 67.3-88.1) with no significant difference between INAA and VGEI (P = .16).

CONCLUSIONS

ISR of INAA or VGEI with the antimicrobial graft showed encouraging early mortality, comparable to the rates found in femoral vein (9%-16%) and arterial allograft (8%-28%) studies, as well as mid-term reinfection. The highest in-hospital mortality was noted for VEI including nearly 50% of AEnF.

Ten-year experience with cryopreserved vascular allografts in the Croatian Cardiovascular Tissue Bank

The Croatian Cardiovascular Tissue Bank (CTB) was established in June 2011. Activities managed by CTB are processing of heart valves and blood vessels, as well as quality control, storage, medical release and distribution of allografts. The aim of this report is to present CTB's vascular tissue activities and retrospectively evaluate the outcomes of their use in the University Hospital Centre Zagreb. Between June 2011 and July 2021, 90 vascular allografts (VAs) from 55 donors after brain death were referred to CTB. Only 54% of VAs met the tissue quality requirements while 46% of tissues were discarded. The most frequent reasons for discard were unacceptable morphology and initial microbiological contamination. Altogether 42 VAs were released for transplantation and 37 of them were used in 27 surgical procedures. The most common indication for surgery was prosthetic graft or stent infection. According to the anatomic position of vascular reconstruction, patients were divided in the aortic and peripheral reconstruction group. A total of 23 patients were treated. In the aortic reconstruction group 58% of patients did not experience any graft-related complications. In the group of patients who underwent peripheral reconstruction significant incidence of reinfection was observed highlighting it as a major graft-related complication. Despite the small patient groups and limited duration of follow-up, presented clinical outcomes provide valuable information on the efficacy of vascular allografts. Additional clinical results collected on a larger patient groups and comparison to other reconstructive treatment options are necessary.

Aortoenteric fistula following endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

Aortoenteric fistula is a rare complication after endovascular stent grafting. In the present report, we have described the case of a 69-year-old man 3 years after endovascular repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm who had presented with worsening back pain and fever. Computed tomography had demonstrated dilated bowel and a thickened aortic wall, with air foci within the native aneurysm sac. He underwent emergent right axillary–bifemoral bypass with explantation of the aortic endograft and primary repair of the duodenal fistula. Tissue cultures grew Streptococcus anginosus, Prevotella denticola, and Parvimonas micra, and he was discharged home with 6 weeks of intravenous ceftriaxone and oral metronidazole after an 18-day hospital admission.

Use of a Silver-Impregnated Vascular Graft: Single-Center Experience

INTRODUCTION

Vascular graft infection is a life threatening situation with significant morbidity and mortality. Bacterial graft infection can lead to false aneurysms, bleeding and sepsis. There are a lot of risky situations where grafts can become infected. It is therefore highly desirable to have a vascular graft that is resistant to infection. In this retrospective clinical study, a silver-impregnated vascular graft was evaluated in various indications.

METHODS

Our study included a total of 71 patients who received a silver-impregnated vascular graft during the period from 2013 to 2018. Patients had an aortoiliac localization of vascular graft in 61 cases (86%), and a peripheral localization on the lower limbs in 10 cases (14%). Indications for the use of these special vascular grafts were trophic lesions or gangrene in the lower limbs in 24 cases (34%), suspicious mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm (mAAA) in 4 cases (5.5%), salmonela aortitis or aneurysms in 4 cases (5.5%), infection of the previous vascular graft in 11 cases (15.5%), other infections in 12 cases (17%), AAA rupture in 10 cases (14%) and other reasons (pre-transplant condition, multiple trauma, graft-enteric fistula) in 6 cases (8.5%). Thirty-day mortality, morbidity, the need for reintervention and amputation, primary and secondary graft patency, and finally the presence of a proven vascular graft infection were evaluated.

RESULTS

The 30-day mortality was 19.7%, and morbidity was 42.2%. The primary patency of the vascular graft was 91.5%. Reoperation was necessary in 10 cases (14%) and amputation was necessary in 10 cases (14%). The median length of hospital stay was 13 days and the mean follow-up period was 48 ± 9 months. During the follow-up period, six patients (8.5%) died from reasons unrelated to surgery or without any relation to the vascular graft. Secondary patency after one year was 88%. Infection of the silver graft was observed in three patients (4.2%).

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our results, the silver graft is a very suitable alternative for solving infectious, or potentially infectious, situations in vascular surgery. In particular, in urgent or acute cases, a silver graft is often the only option.

Cryopreserved venous allograft in the treatment of a mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm caused by group B Streptococcus

We report a case of a mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm caused by invasive group B streptococcus. Given the anatomical suitability with healthy segments of aortoiliac vessels, in situ repair was performed. A cryopreserved femoral vein graft was chosen because of risks of graft reinfection and negated the need for bilateral femoral vein harvest. The patient remained clinically well and the graft patent with no concerns at 6 months of follow-up. A review of literature on group B Streptococcus aortitis was performed.

Variant Neo-Aortoiliac System Operation Using a Composite Conduit of Silver-Coated Dacron Graft and Autologous Femoral Veins: A Report of Two Cases

Aortic prosthesis infection is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates. The introduction of the neo-aortoiliac system (NAIS) technique offers a new perspective, as a venous conduit is considered an optimal graft in aortic prosthesis infection because it is autogenous, durable, inexpensive and has low infection rates. Occasionally, the anatomical characteristics of available autologous venous conduits may limit the applicability of this technique. Herein, we present two cases in which a variant NAIS technique was used to confront an aortic graft infection. To expand the usefulness of the NAIS technique and avoid the use of prosthetic material in a potentially contaminated area as much as possible, we combined an autologous femoral vein with a short segment of a silver-coated Dacron graft. The combination of a silver-impregnated graft and the NAIS is a feasible bailout technique should the NAIS vein appears inadequate upon exploration.

Appraising 5 years in activity of the largest public Canadian vascular graft bank

BACKGROUND

In Canada, tissue distribution is managed by provincial entities. In 2014, Hema-Quebec established a cryopreserved vascular tissue bank accessible to all Canadian hospitals. The objectives of this report were to review the first 5 years of activity of Hema-Quebec's vascular bank and to briefly assess the competitiveness of its products.

METHODS

Deceased donors, ages 15 to 60, were screened for common blood-borne diseases. Grafts were treated in a triple-antibiotic solution at 35°C before preservation at -100°C. Hema-Quebec's vascular graft records were analyzed from 2014 to 2019 inclusively.

RESULTS

The average donor age was 35 years old and 78% of donors were men. Overall, 63% of harvested grafts cleared the quality management system. Positive microbial cultures and morphologic defects were the major reasons for graft discard. As such, a total of 60 grafts were delivered between 2016 and 2019 to 8 hospital centers. Moreover, the bank achieved a mean activity increase of 55% per year and Hema-Quebec's homografts were 48% less costly compared with similar homographs from for-profit organizations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that Hema-Quebec has established a viable cryopreserved vascular tissue bank with steady increase in activity and an acceptable graft discard rates and pricing. Based on our findings, we recommend that efforts should be directed to expand the tissue bank graft distribution outside the province of Quebec.

Surgical and medical interventions for abdominal aortic graft infections

BACKGROUND

Abdominal aortic graft infections are a major complication following abdominal aortic aneurysm surgery, with high morbidity and mortality rates. They can be treated surgically or conservatively using medical management. The two most common surgical techniques are in situ replacement of the graft and extra-anatomical bypass. Medical management most commonly consists of a course of long-term antibiotics. There is currently no consensus on which intervention (extra-anatomical bypass, in situ replacement, or medical) is the most effective in managing abdominal aortic graft infections. Whilst in emergency or complex situations such as graft rupture surgical management is the only option, in non-emergency situations it is often personal preference that influences the clinician's decision-making.

OBJECTIVES

To assess and compare the effects of surgical and medical interventions for abdominal aortic graft infections.

SEARCH METHODS

The Cochrane Vascular Information Specialist searched the Cochrane Vascular Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, and CINAHL databases and WHO ICTRP and ClinicalTrials.gov trials registers to 2 December 2019. We also reviewed the bibliographies of the studies identified by the search and contacted specialists in the field and study authors to request information on any possible unpublished data.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We aimed to include all randomised controlled trials that used surgical or medical interventions to treat abdominal aortic graft infections. The definitions of abdominal aortic graft infections were accepted as presented in the individual studies, and included secondary infection due to aortoenteric fistula. We excluded studies presenting data on prosthetic graft infections in general, unless data specific to abdominal aortic graft infections could be isolated.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed all studies identified by the search. We planned to independently assess risk of bias of the included trials and to evaluate the quality of the evidence using the GRADE approach. Our main outcomes were overall mortality, amputation, graft re-infection, overall graft-related complications, graft-related mortality, acute limb ischaemia, and re-intervention.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified no randomised controlled trials to conduct meta-analysis.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

There is currently insufficient evidence to draw conclusions to support any treatment over the other. Multicentre clinical trials are required to compare different treatments for the condition.

Systematic Review and Meta: Analysis of Aortic Graft Infections following Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair

Introduction. Aortic graft infection (AGI) is a rare complication following AAA repair and is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Management is variable, and there are no evidence-based guidelines. The aim of this study was to systematically review and analyse management options for AGI.

Tubular Reconstruction with Bovine Pericardium Xenografts to Treat Native Aortic Infections

BACKGROUND

The treatment of aortic infections is complex, and the material of reconstruction remains discussed. Several alternatives were suggested in the literature. The current consensus is the use of biological material. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term results of bovine pericardium xenografts.

METHODS

Between November 2016 and June 2019, we included consecutively all the patients presenting with native aortic infections in which arterial reconstruction was carried out with tubular bovine pericardium grafts sutured longitudinally. We collected the preoperative, peroperative, and postoperative clinical, radiological, biological, and bacteriological characteristics. The recurrence of infection, the graft failures, and the morbimortality were analyzed.

RESULTS

Twelve patients including three women were treated. Their mean age was 68.4 ± 9 years. They presented 2 thoracic, 4 thoracoabdominal, 4 abdominal, and 2 aortoiliac aneurysms. The diagnosis was made using angio-CT in all the cases and was confirmed by positron emission tomography (PET) scan in 7 cases and blood cultures in 9 cases. Peroperative cultures were positive in 11 cases. Antibiotics were given in 9 patients before operation for a median duration of 9 (3-19) days and in all the patients postoperatively for a median duration of 42 (1-540) days. The median follow-up was 355 (98-839) days. Six medical complications occurred, including 2 (16.6%) leading to death in the immediate postoperative period. No reoperation was needed. The PET scan returned positive in 1/10 cases (10%) during the follow-up. The diameter of the grafts was preserved, without any defect observed on the angio-CT.

CONCLUSIONS

Short-term results showed a mechanical resistance to infection of the bovine pericardium. This biological material offers a promising alternative with multiple advantages including availability, simplicity of preparation, and adaptability to the various locations of the aortic infection.

Twenty-year experience with cryopreserved arterial allografts for vascular infections

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyse outcomes over 2 decades using cryopreserved vascular allografts to treat vascular infection.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of patients identified from our institutional database who were treated for primary or secondary vascular infection using implanted allografts.

RESULTS

Between October 1992 and May 2014, 54 patients underwent surgery for vascular infection out of 118 patients implanted with cryopreserved vascular allografts. The 52 patients for whom we had full information form the basis of the study with a 96% follow-up. The average age was 64 ± 11 years; 87% were men; 65% had previous vascular surgery; 19% had emergency operations. A total of 75% of the patients had aortoiliofemoral infections. Five patients underwent surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Fifty percent required more than 1 allograft and 15% had concomitant procedures. Seventy-three percent (38/52) of specimen cultures yielded positive results with polymicrobial flora in 29%. Surgical specimens most frequently grew coagulase-negative staphylococci. The early postoperative reoperation rate was 15% for allograft-related complications. There were 20 (38%) early deaths, including deaths of acute myocardial infarction, anastomosis rupture and persistent sepsis and shock. Uncontrolled infection leading to septic shock and multiple organ failure was the cause of death in 50% of the cases. The mean duration of freedom from allograft reintervention was 12.2 years. The mean duration of freedom from allograft occlusion or limb loss was 12.1 years [95% confidence interval (CI) 9.9-14.4]. Of the 32 surviving patients, we had patency information for 66% obtained by angiography or computed tomography. The mean survival for the cohort was 5.9 years (95% CI 3.9-7.8). Mean freedom from cardiovascular infection-related death was 9.3 years (95% CI 7.2-11.4).

CONCLUSIONS

Allografts can be indicated for treatment of primary/secondary infection and have remarkable results in multimorbid patients. Patients with vascular infection have a high-risk profile, around 40% mortality during the first 6 months, with reduction in overall mortality thereafter. We believe that allografts may play a role in the surgical treatment of vascular infection.

Editor's Choice - Cryopreserved Allografts for Arterial Reconstruction after Aorto-Iliac Infection: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Native and aortic graft infections are rare, but they represent one of the most life threatening complications of vascular surgery. Several materials and surgical approaches have been developed so far. Among them, cryopreserved allografts have been proposed as a treatment option. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to investigate the role of cryopreserved allografts for arterial reconstruction after aorto-iliac infection.

METHODS

The current meta-analysis was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Patient baseline characteristics were investigated, along with 30 outcomes after use of cryopreserved arterial allografts for reconstruction after aorto-iliac infection. Pooled proportions with 95% CIs of outcome rates were calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 31 studies, including 1,377 patients, finally participated in the meta-analysis. Among the early outcomes, 30 day mortality was 14.91% (95% CI 11.78-18.31). Peri-anastomotic rupture/allograft disruption rate was 5.90% (95% CI 2.77-9.88), while pooled aneurysmal degeneration/allograft dilatation was 4.99% (95% CI 1.60-9.68). A pooled rate of 3.11% (95% CI 1.60-4.98) was estimated for pseudoaneurysm formation after the use of cryopreserved arterial allografts, while the allograft thrombotic/stenotic complication rate and peri-anastomotic infection were 12.19% (95% CI 7.90-17.15) and 3.32% (95% CI 1.90-5.03), respectively. Mortality during follow up was 19.24% (95% CI 11.97-27.58), while allograft related mortality during follow up was 3.58% (95% CI 1.56-6.15). A pooled allograft related re-operation rate was estimated at 24.87% (95% CI 17.89-32.51).

CONCLUSIONS

The use of cryopreserved allograft seems to be a safe and durable option with acceptable outcomes for treatment of aorto-iliac infection.

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis on the Management of Open Abdominal Aortic Graft Infections

OBJECTIVE

Aortic graft infection (AGI) is a disastrous complication with an incidence of 0.2-6% in operated patients. With little or no high quality evidence, the best treatment option remains unclear. Therefore, the literature on the management of open abdominal AGI was systematically reviewed to determine optimal treatment.

METHODS

In accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted for AGI. MEDLINE, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched. Methodological quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-randomised Studies (MINORS) score. Primary outcomes were 30 day mortality and one year survival. Secondary outcomes were survival, infection recurrence, limb salvage, and graft patency.

RESULTS

Of 1574 studies identified, 32 papers were included in the study. The overall quality of the studies was moderate, with an average MINORS score of 11.9. Pooled overall 30 day mortality and one year survival were 13.5% (95% CI 10.5-16.4) and 73.6% (95% CI 68.8-78.4), respectively. The lowest 30 day mortality and highest one year survival were found for in situ repair compared with extra-anatomic repair and for prosthetic grafts compared with venous grafts or arterial allografts. The infection recurrence rate was highest for prosthetic grafts.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a lack of well designed, qualitative comparative studies making conclusive recommendations impossible. The current best available data suggests that partial graft removal should be avoided and the lowest 30 day mortality and best one year survival are achieved with in situ repair using prosthetic grafts. Initiatives such as the MAGIC database to collaboratively collect prospective data are an important step forward in obtaining more solid answers on this topic.

Endovascular Treatment of a Late False Aneurysm Complicating Open Suprarenal Mycotic Aneurysm Repair with a Cryopreserved Aortic Homograft

We report a patient who was initially treated for a suprarenal mycotic aortic aneurysm. The aneurysm repair was performed using a cryopreserved arterial homograft and debranching of visceral arteries. Five years later, the patient was referred due to a large symptomatic false aneurysm at the distal homograft anastomosis. Endovascular repair was indicated and performed using a bifurcated Medtronic composite stent graft. The procedure was uneventful, while control angiography showed complete exclusion of the false aneurysm. Within 6 months of follow-up, the endograft showed favorable position and maintained patency with no signs of endoleaks. We discuss the role of the cryopreserved homografts for in situ repair of mycotic aortic aneurysms and comment on possible late complications after placing those grafts.

Pneumococcal urinary antigen test: A tool for pneumococcal aortitis diagnosis?

Introduction

Aortitis is rare. The etiological diagnosis is difficult but essential for treatment. Even with appropriate treatment mortality remains high. We present a case of pneumococcal aortitis followed by a brief review of the literature.

Presentation of Case

In this case, the aortic disease was characterized by multiple inflammatory aneurysms. Blood cultures were negative but urine was tested for the presence of pneumococcal urinary antigen postoperatively was positive. Treatment consisted of antibacterial therapy and both surgical and endovascular procedures. The patient was discharged and is well.

Discussion

Preoperative determination of etiology is crucial in implementing a specific treatment. Pneumococcus is a common bacterium in infectious aortitis. Identification of the causative microbe is necessary to guide antimicrobial therapy. Blood cultures are frequently sterile. The pneumococcal urinary antigen test may be more sensitive than blood cultures, as is the case in pneumococcal pneumonia.

Conclusions

The pneumococcal urinary antigen test may was a useful diagnostic tool in establishing the cause for aortitis in this case. Its potential value should be assessed in furthers studies.

Open Repair of Mycotic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms With Biological Grafts: An International Multicenter Study

BACKGROUND

The treatment of mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm requires surgery and antimicrobial therapy. Since prosthetic reconstructions carry a considerable risk of reinfection, biological grafts are noteworthy alternatives. The current study evaluated the durability, infection resistance, and midterm outcome of biological grafts in treatment of mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm.

METHODS AND RESULTS

All patients treated with biological graft in 6 countries between 2006 and 2016 were included. Primary outcome measures were 30- and 90-day survival, treatment-related mortality, and reinfection rate. Secondary outcome measures were overall mortality and graft patency. Fifty-six patients (46 males) with median age of 69 years (range 35-85) were included. Sixteen patients were immunocompromised (29%), 24 (43%) had concomitant infection, and 12 (21%) presented with rupture. Bacterial culture was isolated from 43 (77%). In-situ aortic reconstruction was performed using autologous femoral veins in 30 patients (54%), xenopericardial tube-grafts in 12 (21%), cryopreserved arterial/venous allografts in 9 (16%), and fresh arterial allografts in 5 (9%) patients. During a median follow-up of 26 months (range 3 weeks-172 months) there were no reinfections and only 3 patients (5%) required assistance with graft patency. Thirty-day survival was 95% (n=53) and 90-day survival was 91% (n=51). Treatment-related mortality was 9% (n=5). Kaplan-Meier estimation of survival at 1 year was 83% (95% confidence interval, 73%-94%) and at 5 years was 71% (52%-89%).

CONCLUSIONS

Mycotic abdominal aortic aneurysm repair with biological grafts is a durable option for patients fit for surgery presenting an excellent infection resistance and good overall survival.

A Meta-Analysis of Outcomes After In Situ Reconstructions for Aortic Graft Infection

OBJECTIVE

To confirm the advantage of in situ reconstruction (ISR) over extra-anatomic reconstruction (EAR) for aortic graft infection and determine the most appropriate conduit including autogenous veins, cryopreserved allografts, and synthetic prosthesis (standard, rifampicin of silver polyesters).

METHODS

A meta-analysis was conducted with rate of mortality, graft occlusion, amputation, and reinfection. A meta-regression was performed with 4 factors: patients' age, presence of prosthetic-duodenal fistula (PDF), virulent organisms, or nonvirulent organisms.

RESULTS

In situ reconstruction over EAR seems to favor all events. For the 5 conduits used for ISR, according to operative mortality, age of the patients looks to have a positive correlation only for silver polyester and no conduit present any advantage in the presence of PDF. Reinfection seems to be not significantly different for the 5 conduits, and only autogenous veins appear to have a positive correlation with infecting organisms.

CONCLUSION

In situ reconstruction may be considered as first-line treatment. Our results suggest that silver polyesters appear to be most appropriate for older patients, and in order to limit reinfection, autogenous veins are probably the most suitable conduit.

Cryopreserved Human Allografts for the Reconstruction of Aortic and Peripheral Prosthetic Graft Infection

Background: This study aimed to present cases with cryopreserved human allografts (CHAs) for vascular reconstruction in both aortic and peripheral infected prosthetic grafts.

Materials and Methods: This is a single center, observational descriptive study with retrospective analysis. In all cases, the infected prosthetic graft material was completely removed. At discharge, patients were administered anticoagulants. Follow-up examinations included clinical visits, echo-color-Doppler ultrasounds, or computed tomography angiography within 30 days and at 3, 6, and 12 months after the treatment, and then twice per year.

Results: We treated 21 patients (90% men, n=19) with the mean age of 71±12 years and mean interval between the initial operation and replacement with CHA of 30 months [range, 1–216; interquartile range (IQR), 2–36]. In-hospital mortality was 14% (n=3); no CHA-related complication led to death. Limb salvage was 100%. No patient was lost at the median follow-up of 14 months (range, 2–61; IQR, 6–39). No rupture, aneurysmal degeneration, or re-infection occurred. Estimated freedom from CHA-related adverse events (95% confidence interval, 43–63) was 95% at 3 years.

Conclusion: In our experience, CHAs are a viable option for prosthetic graft infections and provide satisfactory clinical results and favorable stability because of a very low rate of CHA-related adverse events during follow-up.

Bovine Pericardium as New Technical Option for In Situ Reconstruction of Aortic Graft Infection

BACKGROUND

Alloplastic aortic graft infection is a devastating complication following aortic surgery. It is associated with excessively high mortality and morbidity caused by anastomotic rupture or septicemia. Many authors consider in situ replacement after complete surgical graft removal as the method of choice. However, there is an ongoing debate about the most suitable material for reconstruction. We present our first experiences with replacing the descending and infrarenal aorta using custom-made bovine pericardium grafts.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

From January 2013 to 2015, 13 patients (10 male, median age 70 years, range 53-84) were treated for 5 early-graft infections after open reconstructions and 7 late graft infections (1 TEVAR, 2 EVAR, and 4 open reconstructions), and 1 patient was treated for mycotic aneurysm. Septicemia was evident in 8 patients, whereas 5 patients were presented with low-grade infection. In all cases, graft infection was proven by a synopsis of clinical findings, laboratory tests, imaging, and microbiologic tests (positive pathogen detection in 11 patients). Cutaneous and aortoenteric fistulae were present in 3 and 4 patients, respectively. All patients received an in situ replacement using a hand-sewn xenoprosthesis or patch made from a bovine pericardium sheet. Follow-up was routinely performed 3, 12, and 24 months after discharge.

RESULTS

For reconstruction, 4 pericardium tubes, 7 bifurcated grafts, and 2 large patches were implanted in situ. Technical success was 100%. Median length of hospital stay was 44 days (range, 20-136 days), with an in-hospital mortality rate of 7.7% (n = 1). Major procedure- and disease-related complications were temporary (n = 2) and permanent dialysis (n = 1), limb loss (n = 1), and long-term ventilation (n = 5). Complete infection control and initial healing could be achieved in 75% (n = 10). During the follow-up (median 9 months, range: 1-27 months), primary graft patency was 100%, and mortality was 41.7%. We observed 2 secondary ruptures due to reinfection at 4 and 7 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Custom-made bovine pericardium grafts provide a good option for in situ replacement following early or late aortic graft infection. Despite of its high biocompatibility, pericardium provides not an absolute protection against ongoing retroperitoneal infection. For the treatment, the principles of septic surgery need to be applied and close follow-up is mandatory.

Editor's Choice - Management of Secondary Aorto-enteric and Other Abdominal Arterio-enteric Fistulas: A Review and Pooled Data Analysis

OBJECTIVES

To compare management strategies for secondary abdominal arterio-enteric fistulas (AEFs).

METHODS

This study is a review and pooled data analysis. Medline and Scopus databases were searched for studies published between 1999 and 2015. Particular emphasis was given to short- and long-term outcomes in relation to AEF repair type.

RESULTS

Two hundred and sixteen publications were retrieved, reporting on 823 patients. In-hospital mortality was 30.7%. Open surgery had higher in-hospital mortality (246/725, 33.9%), than endovascular methods (7/98, 7.1%, p < .001, OR 6.7, 95% CI 3-14.7, including staged endovascular to open surgery, 0/13, 0%). In-hospital mortality after graft removal/extra-anatomical bypass grafting was 31.2% (66/226), graft removal/in situ repair 34% (137/403), primary closure of the arterial defect 62.5% (10/16), and for miscellaneous open procedures 41.3% (33/80), p = .019. Among the subgroups of in situ repair, homografts were associated with a higher mortality than impregnated prosthetic grafts (p = .047). There was no difference in recurrent AEF-free rates between open and endovascular procedures. Extra-anatomical bypass/graft removal and in situ repair had a lower AEF recurrence rate than primary closure and homografts. Late sepsis occurred more often after endovascular surgery (2-year rates 42% vs. 19% for open, p = .001). The early survival benefit of endovascular surgery was blunted during follow-up, although it remained significant (p < .001). Within the in situ repair group, impregnated prosthetic grafts were associated with the worst overall and AEF related mortality free rates and vein grafts with the best. No recurrence, sepsis, or mortality was reported following staged endograft placement to open repair after a mean follow-up of 16.8 months (p = .18, p = .22, and p = .006, respectively, compared with patients in other groups).

CONCLUSIONS

Endovascular surgery, where appropriate, is associated with better early survival than open surgery for secondary AEFs. Most of this benefit is lost during long-term follow-up, implying that a staged approach with early conversion to in situ vein grafting may achieve the best results in selected patients.

Xenopericardial self-made tube grafts in infectious vascular reconstructions: Preliminary results of an easy and ready to use surgical approach

PURPOSE

Infections are a major setback of vascular reconstruction and associated with considerable morbidity and mortality. We evaluated retrospectively our results with self-made bovine pericardial grafts in infected vessel revascularization versus standard graft material.

BASIC METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 9 patients with bovine reconstruction and 10 patients with miscellaneous grafts (vein, homograft) for vascular infections.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Infection-free rate of the pericardial group was 100% in 17 months. For patients after reconstructions with miscellaneous grafts, the infection-free rate was 82% in 45 months. Overall in-hospital mortality was 10.5%. There were no in-hospital deaths in the pericardial group. Graft patency of the whole cohort was 100%. The median follow up was 11.74 months.

CONCLUSION

Self-made bovine pericardial tube grafts can be crafted to almost any size and adjusted to complex anatomic requirements. The use was feasible in various situations and was associated with good preliminary results concerning patency and reinfection.

Mycotic Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Secondary to Septic Embolism of a Thoracic Aorta Graft Infection

Mycotic aneurysms account for 1% of abdominal aortic aneurysms. There are very few cases published that describe the formation of mycotic aneurysms after septic embolism due to graft infection. We present the first case to our knowledge to be described in the literature of a mycotic aneurysm caused by septic embolism derived from a thoracic aorta graft infection, treated with conventional surgery leading to a successful outcome and evolution.

A novel method for long-lasting preservation of arterial grafts

BACKGROUND

Autologous venous grafts generally give best results for arterial bypass grafting in cases of arterial stenosis. When no suitable venous graft can be found, synthetic prosthetic graft may be an alternative. Prostheses are easily accessible but susceptible to infection. In these cases, the replacement of infected prosthesis by the human arterial allograft is the best treatment option. The question arises whether we could prepare a graft meeting mechanical conditions of an artery immunologically inert and resistant to bacterial infection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

LEW and BN rat aortic segments were placed in dehydrated sodium chloride and stored for 1 to 12 mo. Then, they were transplanted orthotopically as aortic grafts for 3 to 15 mo in syngenic and allogenic combination. No immunosuppression was used. Patency, pulsation, and frequency of development of aneurysms were studied. The tensile strength and maximum intraluminal pressures were measured. Morphology of grafts was evaluated on histology and electron microscopy. The endothelial and infiltrating cells were identified.

RESULTS

Transplanted allogeneic aortic grafts preserved in anhydrous sodium chloride up to 12 mo remained patent for 15 mo. Hypertrophy of intima with endothelial cells lining the inner surface and single muscle cells between elastic fibers were seen. Normal structure of collagen and elastic fibers was maintained. Only minor-host mononuclear infiltrates were seen around the preserved allografts.

CONCLUSIONS

Rat aortas preserved in anhydrous sodium chloride retain patency and function even 15 mo after transplantation. Such grafts retain their wall structure and evoke only minor recipient reaction. Our results confirm that anhydrous sodium chloride may be used for arterial grafts preservation. Low immunogenicity is additional advantage.

Outcomes of Open Repair of Mycotic Descending Thoracic and Thoracoabdominal Aortic Aneurysms

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the short- and intermediate-term outcomes of open repair of mycotic thoracic and thoracoabdominal aneurysms. Contemporary surgical and perioperative techniques were utilized.

METHODS

From November 1997 to May 2014, 14 consecutive patients underwent open repair of descending thoracic (n = 9, 64.3%) and thoracoabdominal (n = 5, 35.7%) mycotic aortic aneurysms. All procedures were performed through the left side of the chest. Infected tissue was completely debrided and excised. Aortic continuity was restored in situ with a Dacron prosthesis (Macquet Corp, Oakland, NJ). Soft tissue coverage of the prosthesis was performed when anatomy and patient condition permitted. Perioperative outcomes, intermediate-term survival, and reinfection rates were examined.

RESULTS

All patients presented with either aneurysm-related symptoms or a clinical picture of sepsis. Diagnosis was confirmed utilizing computed tomography imaging. Mean age was 66 ± 13 years, 8 patients (57.1%) were male, and mean aneurysm size was 5.9 ± 1.3 cm. All patients were hypertensive, 3 (21.4%) had prior coronary revascularization, 7 (50%) had chronic pulmonary disease, 5 (35.7%) had diabetes mellitus, and 2 (14.3%) had end-stage renal disease requiring dialysis. Twelve patients (85.7%) had aneurysm-related pain, and 9 (64.3%) of them had contained rupture. Mean time from onset of illness to surgery was 36 days (range, 0 to 153). On preoperative blood cultures, 4 (28.6%) grew Staphylococcus aureus, 4 (28.6%) grew gram negative organisms, 2 (14.3%) grew mycobacterium, and 4 cultures (28.6%) had negative results. Empiric broad-spectrum antibiotics were initiated on all patients and adjusted based on final cultures. A majority of patients underwent repair utilizing a clamp-and-sew technique (n = 10, 71.4%); the remainder (n = 4, 28.6%) required repair under profound hypothermic circulatory arrest. After radical debridement of the infected tissue, grafts were placed in the normal anatomic position; 6 (42.9%) patients had additional soft tissue coverage, 5 (35.7%) utilizing an omental flap and 1 (7.1%), a serratus muscle flap. There was 1 in-hospital death (7.1%) secondary to ischemic bowel. Four patients (28.6%) required tracheostomy, and 1 (7.1%) had recurrent nerve injury. None of the patients incurred spinal cord injury, stroke, or new onset renal failure requiring dialysis. After surgery, all patients were given 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotics. Lifelong suppression therapy was maintained with oral antibiotics. There were no episodes of prosthetic graft infection on follow-up. Univariate analysis revealed that New York Heart Association functional class, diabetes, and preoperative renal dysfunction were preoperative risk factors for major adverse events. Mean follow-up time was 26.5 months (median 8.2; range, 1 to 142). Actuarial 5-year survival was 71%.

CONCLUSIONS

Open repair of mycotic descending thoracic and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms remains the gold standard of therapy. Aggressive intraoperative debridement with in situ prosthetic reconstruction permits a high rate of success in this very high risk cohort of patients. Lifelong antibiotic suppression therapy may prevent late prosthetic graft infection.

How To Diagnose and Manage Infected Endografts after Endovascular Aneurysm Repair

The prevalence of endograft infections (EI) after endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair is below 1%. With the growing number of patients with aortic endografts and the aging population, the number of patients with EI might also increase. The diagnosis is based on an association of clinical symptoms, imaging, and microbial cultures. Angio-computed tomography is currently the gold-standard technique for diagnosis. Low-grade infection sometimes requires nuclear medicine imaging to make a correct diagnosis. There is no good evidence to guide management so far. In the case of active gastrointestinal bleeding, pseudoaneurysm, or extensive perigraft purulence involving adjacent organs, an invasive treatment should always be attempted. In the other cases (the majority), when there is not an immediate danger to the patient's life, a conservative management is started with a proper antimicrobial therapy. Any infectious cavity can be percutaneously drained. Management depends on the patient's condition and a tailored approach should always be offered. In the case of a patient who is young, has a good life expectancy, or in whom there is absence of significant comorbidities, a surgical attempt can be proposed. Surgical techniques favor, in terms of mortality, patency, and reinfection rate, the in situ reconstruction. Choice of technique relies on the center and the operator's experience. Long-term antibiotic therapy is always required in all cases, with close monitoring of the C-reactive protein.