Management of prosthetic graft infection after surgery of the thoracic aorta: Removal of the prosthetic graft is not necessary

Abstract

Prosthetic graft infection (PGI) after surgery to reconstruct the thoracic aorta is a devastating complication. The reported incidence is between 1% and 3%.1 Treatment of this complication remains a challenge for surgeons, and chances of a successful outcome are considered low. Mortality rates range from 25% to 75%, and morbidity in surviving patients is high.2