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ANZSVS Conference 2026
Small Particles, Big Problems: A Scoping Review of Microplastics in Vascular Surgery
Verbal Presentation

Verbal Presentation

12:04 pm

11 September 2026

Bloom Room

Kidneys, Reno-Vascular Access & the Environment

Disciplines

Vascular Surgery

Presentation Description

Institution: St Vincent's Hospital Sydney - NSW, Australia

Purpose: Microplastics and nanoplastics (MNPs) are increasingly present in the global environment as production of plastics increases despite our understanding of their impact on health remaining limited. This review serves to understand the extent and type of evidence in relation to the role of MNPs relevant to the field of vascular and endovascular surgery. Methodology: Using the PRISMA-ScR guidelines, a search of MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases was undertaken from inception to until 24 March 2026. Eligibility criteria included studies published in English, contained human population groups, and examined MNPs in a context relevant to vascular and endovascular surgery. Studies were screened during a blinded review by two authors (LV, AH). Results: 2234 articles were identified from database searches with 28 articles meeting eligibility criteria for review. Most articles identified were reviews and thematically reported on the role of MNPs in cardiovascular risk factors via increased rates of atherosclerosis, thrombosis and reduction in vascular bed integrity. Outcomes-based studies reported higher concentrations of MNPs within vascular and renal tissue correlating with increased severity and complications of cardiovascular disease, including stroke and myocardial infarction, and chronic renal disease. Observational studies identified iatrogenic MNPs associated with therapeutics including percutaneous and endovascular devices, continuous renal replacement therapy and haemodialysis circuits, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuits. Conclusion: The effects of MNPs within the cardiovascular system identifies roles in cardiotoxicity, thrombosis, inflammation and immunomodulation. As such the field of vascular and endovascular surgery is likely to see an increase in disease presentation and severity with effects on management and surgical outcomes not yet revealed.
Speakers
Authors
Authors

Dr Lucille Vance - , Dr Aaron Huang - , Dr Harsimran Seda -