Long-term results from use of fascia lata as arterial graft.

Of twenty-four dogs, fifteen survived up to two years after aortic replacement with fresh fascial graft. Surviving dogs underwent hemodynamic study and cineaortography. Histology of the graft was examined after the dogs were sacrificed. Length of the graft used is an important factor for both dog survival and graft hemodynamics. The shorter the aortic segment replaced the better the chances for long-term graft patency.