VEIN GRAFTS - HEMODYNAMIC FORCES ON THE ENDOTHELIUM - A REVIEW

Objective: To review the mechanisms believed to be important in the de velopment of vein graft stenosis, with particular attention placed on the adaptation of saphenous vein endothelium to a new haemodynamic env ironment. Design and methods: Discussion based on review of published research. Results: The aetiology of vein graft stenosis remains to be established and appears to be multi-factorial. The increasing evidence for an important role of haemodynamic forces is discussed, particular ly via the interaction of these forces with the endothelium. Conclusio n: Further understanding of the interaction between haemodynamic force s, blood constituents and the newly implanted vein graft is required. Use of in vitro models is contributing increasing knowledge to this ar ea; but ultimately better non-invasive methods of assessing haemodynam ic forces in vivo are required.