Calcification and degeneration characteristics of the Biocor no-react bovine internal mammary artery (BIMA) - in vivo evaluation in a sheep model.
OBJECTIVE
The No-React process for biomaterials was suggested to prevent calcification and degeneration. We examined in vivo in a chronic sheep model the performance of a Biocor bovine internal mammary artery (BIMA) graft after No-React processing.


METHODS
'No-React' processing consists of aldehyde cross-linkage following a detoxification process with multiple physical variables and incubation with surfactant. Biocor BIMA No-React treated grafts have been interposed in the carotid artery in seven sheep with a Dacron graft as control. Grafts were explanted after 3 or 6months and were grossly examined, by X-ray, histology, transmission and scanning electron microscopy, and atomic absorption spectrophotometry.


RESULTS
In the BIMA, good healing was found with a smooth intimal surface, minimal inflammatory reaction, and a well preserved ultrastructure. Calcification increased progressively. In the Dacron grafts, a fibrous covering the inner surface and infiltration with fibroblasts, histiocytes and macrophages was noted. Calcium content was stable.


CONCLUSIONS
Calcification increased progressively in Biocor BIMA No-React grafts. Minimal inflammatory changes, a smooth inner surface and well preserved ultrastructure were noted.
Jashari
R
R
Center for Experimental Surgery and Anaesthesiology, K.U. Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
Herijgers
P
P
Verbeken
E
E
Van Lommel A
Nishimura
Y
Y
Ràcz
R
R
Flameng
W
W
D000818:Animals; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000009:adverse effects*; D001807:Blood Vessel Prosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002114:Calcinosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D008323:Mammary Arteries; D012756:Sheep
D001672:Biocompatible Materials