# Morphological changes in polyester prosthesis geometry after open aortic repair

## TL;DR

This study shows that Dacron grafts used in aortic surgery change shape over time, with the proximal diameter increasing and the length decreasing.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into the long-term morphological changes of Dacron grafts after open aortic repair.

## Key findings

- The proximal diameter of Dacron grafts increased by 0.251 cm per year.
- The length of the grafts decreased by 0.835 cm per year.
- Distal diameter remained stable over time.

## Abstract

Aim of this study was to assess geometrical changes of implanted Dacron grafts following open surgical ascending aortic replacement.

Geometrical Dacron graft changes were analysed during the postoperative follow-up of 215 who received ascending aortic surgery between 02/2010 and 12/2020. Data was analysed using a linear mixed effects model over long-term follow-up.

One-hundred forty-five (67%) patients of our cohort were male, with a median age of 61 years 52–71.5). Most patients had a history of hypertension (79%). Proximal diameter of the implanted grafts grew at a rate of 0.251 cm (0.181–0.328 cm; p < 0.001) per year. In contrast, distal diameter stayed constant over time (0.019 cm; -0.048–0.135 cm; p = 0.366), while prosthesis length measured at the centreline decreased at a rate of -0.835 cm (-0.969 cm - -0.581 cm; p < 0.001) per year.

In contrast to the native aorta, Dacron grafts seem to decrease in length over time. At the same time, there is a significant increase in proximal diameter. The specific dimensional changes, and differences to the nominal graft dimensions, should be considered at the time of graft implantation to ensure a durable platform for secondary aortic interventions.

Not applicable.

04/02/2021 (No. 20-1302)

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12872-025-04851-0.