Inhibition of Vein Graft Intimal Hyperplasia by Periadventitial Application of Hyaluronic Acid-Carboxymethyl Cellulose: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Objective. Placement of an external support has been reported to prevent intimal hyperplasia of vein grafts. In this study, we investigated the effect of HA/CMC on intimal hyperplasia in a rabbit model. Design. Right jugular vein to common carotid artery bypass grafting was performed in 24 female New Zealand white rabbits (2.5-3.0 kg). Animals were divided into two groups: control group (n=12) and HA/CMC group (n=12). Absorbable membrane barrier was wrapped around vein grafts in HA/CMC group. In control group, no material was applied following venous graft bypass. Results. At 1 month, in the vein grafts supported with the HA/CMC membrane neointimal thickening was significantly less (109 μm [IQR, 78-166]) compared to the unsupported control grafts (220 μm [IQR; 101-312]; p<0.001). Medial thickening in the HA/CMC group (128 μm [IQR, 101-181]) compared to unsheathed control grafts (182 μm [IQR, 131-255] p<0.001) was also significantly less. Conclusion. Periadventitial placement of HA/CMC as an absorbable membrane inhibits intimal hyperplasia of vein bypass grafts in a rabbit model. © 2008 Taylor & Francis.