Radiological Imaging of Vascular Graft Infection

Abstract

This chapter reviews the imaging work-up for prosthetic vascular graft infection with conventional plain films, ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Plain films are not generally used today. However, plain films are indicated to detect associated osteomyelitis in suspected cases of vascular graft infection. Vascular graft infection can develop from days to years after prosthesis placement and can be related to the surgical episode or not, thus, clinical manifestations may vary according to the length of time that has elapsed since the surgical procedure. The chapter talks about the pathological findings related to vascular graft infection. It concludes by discussing the role for therapy follow-up and patient management.