preprints.org > medicine and pharmacology > neuroscience and neurology > doi: 10.20944/preprints202311.0497.v1

Preprint Article Version 1 Preserved in Portico This version is not peer-reviewed

Version 1 : Received: 7 November 2023 / Approved: 8 November 2023 / Online: 8 November 2023 (06:44:08 CET)

Background: The current standard technique for vascular grafting in cerebral revascularization surgery is through the interposition of an autologous blood vessel. Technical complications have necessitated the development of a synthetic alternative, but classical biomaterials are not suited for small caliber vascular grafting due to neointimal hyperplasia and thrombosis. Electrospinning of polymers is a promising technique for the development of small vascular grafts. The in vivo performance and efficacy of electrospun polyurethane (ePU) grafts with an internal diameter of < 1.5 mm have thus far not been evaluated. Methods: We developed a novel ePU graft with a diameter of 1.25 mm for implantation into the infrarenal aorta of rats. Results: Patency rates of grafts after a four-month-period were equal to those reported in other studies with larger ePU graft diameters, and equal or higher than in studies with other biomaterials. We observed some loss in flow velocity throughout the grafts, which suggests a decreased elasticity of the graft compared to native rat aorta. However, the grafts demonstrated good neo-endothelialization and minimal neointimal hyperplasia. Their porosity promoted cellular infiltration, as shown on tissue slide examination. Conclusion: Our results show that ePU vascular grafts with internal diameter of < 1.5 mm are promising candidates for vascular grafting in cerebral revascularization surgery.

cerebral bypass; cerebral revascularization; electrospun polyurethane; vascular graft; vascular neurosurgery

Medicine and Pharmacology, Neuroscience and Neurology

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