Background:To report the use of the sartorius muscle in the preemptive coverage of vascular bypass grafts in selected patients with high risk groins.Patients and methods:Ten males were identified. The sartorius was turned over 180 degrees to cover the vascular conduit at the end of the procedure (Dacron in eight groins and composite in two groins).Results:All muscle flaps were viable. No vascular graft infection occurred despite groin complications (skin necrosis, wound dehiscence and infection) in more than half of the groins. No amputation was necessary. Four mortalities were encountered with causes not attributable to graft sepsis. Mean follow up was 9.1 month's (range: 0.5-18 months).Conclusion:Further study with a control group and longer follow-up is necessary to closely examine the role of the technique in preemptive control of graft sepsis in selected patients with high risk groins.