Abstract
Plasmin treated fibrin impregnated vascular grafts (PF-V: 6mm ID, 8-10cm in length) were implanted bilaterally in carotid arteries of dogs, and evaluated for their anti-tlironibo genicity, handling characteristics, and healing properties. Knitted Dacron graft of identical size impregnated with a gelatin (GELSOFT) was used as a control. The grafts were electively retrieved and analyzed at different time intervals of 6hrs, 1, 3, and 6 months after implantation. Both PF-V and GELSOFT showed good handling characteristics, especially PF-V was able to be suturwithout stripping outer reinforce. No bleeding was observed during surgery in both rafts. At 6 firs after imlantation, GELSOFT produced significant amount of tlirombi and neutrophil aggregates on the graft lumen, whereas PFP V showed only minimal fibrin deposits on the surfaces. Through 6 months alter implantation PF-V demonstrated excellent healing properties with neointinia formation and cellular ingrowtli into graft fibers, which were apparently superior to GELSOFT. In the present study, PF-V demonstrated improved anti-thrombogenicity during the early periods of implantation as well as excellent healing chracteristics in viva long-term implantation. Thus, PF-V has a potential value for a small vessel substitute.
