Pathophysiology of vein graft failure: a review

Abstract

Vein bypass grafting is an integral component of cardiovascular surgical practice for both arterial and venous diseases. However, many of these grafts will eventually fail due to either intrinsic or extrinsic causes. This review examines the current understanding and knowledge of venous histology, vein graft pathology and the associated endothelial and smooth muscle cell physiology and pharmacology. In addition, the status of research on the therapeutic control of vein graft intimal hyperplasia and accelerated atherosclerosis is assessed.