The authors present experimental results with a bovine "mammary" artery graft with a 6 months follow-up and histological study up to 3 months (Transmission and Scanning Electron Microscopy). They report a 100% patency in the 16 dogs operated on (there were 2 controls). Grafts used were 6 cm long, had a 4 mm diameter and were implanted as aorto-aortic bypass. Dinamic evolution of the pseudo-intima is described as thickening up to the 14th day, when it is "cleaned". These facts would be related with variation in the peripheral resistance and their objectives would be narrowing or widening the graft in order to accelerate or slow the flow speed, respectively. Factors related to Poiseuille's law (diameter, length, viscosity) are mentioned as important elements for the patency rate of long lengthened, thin-diametered grafts. Also, the electrical charge of the intima and the endothelial seeding are discussed.

Animals↗

PubMedDate not supplied

The use of bovine pericardium as an arterial graft. A 5-year follow-up.

From June 1980 to June 1985, 42 patients were subjected to patch graft angioplasties using glutaraldehyde tanned bovine pericardium. Life-table analysis showed a 100% patency in the grafted areas. Histological studies made on specimens recovered at 7 and 19 months showed no major deterioration of the original structure. Fibrous cell infiltration was not extensive enough to be harmful. Elastic fibers were relatively preserved, with some dissociation. No endothelialization, infection, thrombosis, or aneurysm dilatation was detected. Angiographic control up to 37 months showed patency and normal internal surface of the graft. It appears from this study that bovine pericardium is a good alternative as a vascular graft material.

Angiography↗