Evaluation of patency of synthetic and autogenous venous and arterial micrografts in rats

Abstract

Long-term patency rates of synthetic and autogenous venous and arterial microvascular grafts in rats were compared. The grafts were interposed between the carotid arteries. The geometry of the anastomoses was designed in a manner intended to be comparable to the situation commonly encountered in cerebral revascularization procedures in man. Patency rates were 37.5% for synthetic grafts, 90% for venous grafts, and 60% for arterial grafts. Venous grafts are the best currently available microvascular prostheses.

Long-term Behaviour of Cryopreserved Arterial Grafts Versus Prosthetic Micrografts

“…In this experimental study, we were able to confirm the excellent patency of both the autografts and cryopreserved grafts, which was reduced in the group of ePTFE implants. Similar patency rates have been described using cryopreserved grafts, 16,17 though those reported for ePTFE are generally lower, 18,19 mainly due to thrombosis.…”

Mechanical Properties of Artificial Protein Matrices Engineered for Control of Cell and Tissue Behavior

“…Diseases of the cardiovascular system are a leading cause of death in the United States, and approximately 550 000 vascular grafts are implanted yearly in the treatment of occlusive arterial disease. − Although most grafting success has been realized through the use of autologous saphenous vein, the demand for autologous vein greatly exceeds availability. , Poly(ethylene terephthalate) and expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (ePTFE) are the dominant synthetic alternatives . While these materials can be used for large-diameter vascular grafts in sites characterized by high rates of blood flow, grafts with diameters of less than 6 mm have been plagued by failure through thrombosis and intimal hyperplasia…”