DIMETHYLSULFOXIDE-TREATED, CRYOPRESERVED VENOUS ALLOGRAFTS IN THE ARTERIAL AND VENOUS SYSTEMS

  • 1 January 1984
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 95  (2) , 154-159
Abstract
Autologous saphenous vein is the preferred conduit for most vascular reconstructive procedures, but many authorities emphasize the need for a reliable alternate. The short-term patency of dimethylsulfoxide-treated, cryopreserved saphenous vein allografts in both high- and low-flow states was assessed. An early patency rate of 58.3% was found for such allografts interposed in the arterial system. No instance of aneurysm formation was noted. Allografts interposed in the venous system uniformly occluded within 5 wk. In dogs treated with aspirin and dipyridamole there was an 83% early patency rate for cryopreserved allografts in the venous system. Evidently, dimethylsulfoxide cryopreservation is a viable technique for venous allograft preservation as demonstrated by satisfactory short-term patency of grafts implanted in the arterial system. Apparently, treatment with aspirin and dipyridamole has a beneficial effect on the early patency of such grafts placed in the venous system.