Simultaneous PTFE reconstruction of the external iliac artery with kidney transplantation

Four cases of simultaneous reconstruction of the external iliac artery with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) during kidney transplantation are described. The procedure facilitated renal artery anastomosis in these cases where direct anastomosis to the external iliac artery was deemed precarious because of marked atherosclerosis. All the kidneys functioned immediately, and there were no infectious or other complications encountered relative to PTFE placement. It is suggested that simultaneous iliac artery reconstruction with PTFE be considered when the renal artery anastomosis is complicated by severe iliac atherosclerosis.