Just curious. OUr center recently switched to mostly Vectra grafts as the graft of choice. We have been told not to clamp them, but to hold manual pressure for 5 minutes. Also, we usually use Coban,an elastic type of wrap after hemostasis, and have been told not to use that on these patients, either. Are other units doing this?
Thanks in advance

Hi Dowa,
In our center we have vectra shunt for 3 years now. Indeed you can't use clamps. Clamps can cause trombosis. Only light pressure is needed, cause of the self sealing material. We always use a light bandage after hemostasis without any problem.

quote:

Originally posted by dowa:
Just curious. OUr center recently switched to mostly Vectra grafts as the graft of choice. We have been told not to clamp them, but to hold manual pressure for 5 minutes. Also, we usually use Coban,an elastic type of wrap after hemostasis, and have been told not to use that on these patients, either. Are other units doing this?
Thanks in advance

We have one Vectra and really like it. We do hold pressure and only use a coverlet bandage after. The representative from the company told us that the graft has tiny fibers in it that give it shape and will be damaged if clamped too tightly or for too long a period of time. The best feature of the Vectra is being able to use it soon after insertion!