LONG TERM STUDES OF PLASMIN TREATED FIBRIN COATED VASCULAR GRAFTS IN CANINE MODELS

Abstract

We have developed a new vascular graft, PF-V, consist of polyester knitted fabric tube impregnated with plasmin treated fibrin. We studied the patency and healing properties of PF-V implanted into canine carotid or femoral arteries at 48 months-implantation. The cumulative patency rate of PF-V was 68% after 48 months. The stenosis and the dilation of the grafts were not observed in all cases by angiography. In histlogical study of PF-V, hyperplasia of neointima and calcification were not observed. These results suggest that PF-V may be expected a good patency after long term implantation and applied for peripheral arterial reconstruction.