Inhibition of neointimal formation and hyperplasia in vein grafts by external stent/sheath.

Synthetic and to a lesser extent vein graft failure is still a major problem in the treatment of peripheral arterial disease, with neointimal hyperplasia being the main cause for graft occlusion in the medium and long term. This review aims to establish the current status of external stents or sheaths in the prevention of intimal hyperplasia in small diameter (< 6 mm) vein grafts.