Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results and complications of standard ePTFE versus stretch ePTFE AV fistulas.
Design: Prospective randomised trial.
Setting: University Hospital.
Materials: During a 2-year period 37 patients received 17 stretch and 20 standard ePTFE graft AV fistulas.
Chief outcome measures: Patients were evaluated for the occurrence of complications and graft patency. Regular Duplex scans were performed to detect stenoses in the fistula circuit.
Main results: Thrombotic events occurred in 40% of the standard ePTFE grafts, compared to 12% of the stretch ePTFE prostheses (p < 0.001). The incidence of puncture complications was similar in both groups. The cumulative primary patency rate in the stretch ePTFE group was significantly higher compared to the standard ePTFE group (1-year patency rates of 59% and 29%, respectively; p < 0.01). No differences in the duration of puncture site bleeding were observed. Duplex scanning showed a significantly greater number of stenoses in the standard ePTFE grafts.
Conclusions: The new stretch ePTFE prosthesis has better primary patency rates and less stenoses due to intimal hyperplasia as compared to standard ePTFE grafts.