| Abstract [eng] |
Background/Objectives: Arteriovenous grafts (AVGs) are critical for hemodialysis access in patients with inadequate native vasculature. The Xeltis aXess graft, a novel bioresorbable vascular access conduit, promotes endogenous tissue restoration. While early outcomes have been promising, longer-term data remain limited. This report presents the longest reported, four-year follow-up on two of the first implanted aXess devices. Case Summaries: Case 1: A 64-year-old woman underwent aXess graft placement on 10 June 2021, between the right brachial artery and vein. She experienced graft thrombosis after 12 months and 18 months, both of which were successfully resolved with thrombectomy, in one instance in combination with drug-coated balloon (DCB) angioplasty. The graft remains functional. Case 2: A 76-year-old man received an aXess graft on 11 June 2021, in the left arm. After 6 months, he underwent balloon and DCB angioplasty for graft–vein (G–V) anastomosis stenosis. After 28 months, to resolve multiple pseudoaneurysms, followed by aneurysm resection and AVG reconstruction at month 29, a tunneled catheter was placed to perform dialysis sessions in the meantime. At month 44, graft-venous (G–V) angioplasty with DCB was performed to resolve G–V and axillary vein stenoses diagnosed at month 43. The graft remains in use. Results: Both patients retained functional dialysis access after four years, despite requiring multiple interventions for thrombosis, stenosis, and pseudoaneurysms. Conclusions: These cases demonstrate that the aXess graft can maintain functionality over four years with appropriate management, although close surveillance and reinterventions may be required. |