Bioinspired Vascular Grafts

Abstract

A durable, synthetic small-caliber bypass graft has not been identified for revascularization of vessels less than 6 mm in diameter, and there exists limited availability of autologous conduits suitable for transplant. Consequently, alternative approaches have focused on designing arterial prostheses through the mimicry of some or all of the characteristics of the arterial wall. Notwithstanding early reports of promising results, important limitations remain associated with tissue engineering strategies, and the design of a living arterial substitute remains elusive. This chapter aims to describe the structural, mechanical, and biological properties of blood vessels and discuss the design considerations that must be implemented to realize the promise of bioinspired vascular grafts.

Development of a Tri‐Layered Vascular Construct and In Vitro Evaluation of Endothelization

“…[ 6,7 ] However, the clinical performance of small‐diameter arterial substitutes (<5 mm internal diameter) with these materials is considered suboptimal. [ 6,8 ] The decrease in blood flow velocity in small‐diameter arteries leading to thrombosis and hyperplasia after implantation results in low patency of vascular grafts. [ 7,9 ] There is a need for vascular graft biomaterials that can mimic the structural and functional properties of the natural blood vessels as much as possible.…”

“…[ 16,17 ] The Food and Drug Administration‐approved synthetic polymers such as poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(D, L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide) (PLGA) are among the polyesters that are widely utilized in artificial vascular grafts and are suitable for use in clinics. [ 8–21 ] PCL is appropriate for vascular constructs due to its biocompatibility, slow biodegradability, and elastic properties. Poly(L‐lactide‐co‐D,L‐lactide) (P(L‐D, L)LA) is rigid and has controllable degradation and a high elastic modulus that will increase the mechanical strength.…”