Histological and biomechanical evaluation of implanted graft materials in a rabbit vaginal and abdominal model.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of the study was to describe the histologic and biomechanical changes of implanted dermal collagen graft materials.


METHODS
Twenty rabbits were randomized into 2 groups (6 and 12 weeks, respectively). Each rabbit had 4 graft segments (human dermis, porcine dermis, porcine collagen-coated polypropylene mesh, and autologous fascia) randomly implanted into the abdomen and the vagina. Biomechanical testing and histologic analysis was performed after recovery of graft segments.


RESULTS
Dermal graft segments showed a marked decrease in ultimate strength (84% to 86%) and elastic modulus (73% to 82%) that was significantly different from the decrease seen in autologous fascia or coated synthetic mesh (P < .0008 and P < .0001, respectively). The decrease in ultimate strength was associated with vaginal implantation (P = .057). Dermal graft materials had moderate inflammation and minimal collagen infiltration.


CONCLUSIONS
The mechanical properties of dermal graft materials decline after implantation. Vaginal implantation may cause a different tissue response to graft material than abdominal implantation. Dermal graft material caused moderate inflammation and minimal collagen ingrowth remote from implantation.
Hilger
Wesley S
WS
Division of Gynecologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA. hilger.wesley@mayo.edu
Walter
Andrew
A
Zobitz
Mark E
ME
Leslie
Kevin O
KO
Magtibay
Paul
P
Cornella
Jeffrey
J
D000005:Abdomen / Q000601:surgery*; D000818:Animals; D001705:Bioprosthesis / Q000009:adverse effects; D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible; D003094:Collagen / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D020405:Dermis / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000637:transplantation; D004548:Elasticity; D005205:Fascia / Q000637:transplantation; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007249:Inflammation / Q000209:etiology; D011817:Rabbits; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D013526:Surgical Mesh; D013552:Swine; D013718:Tensile Strength; D014182:Transplantation, Autologous; D014621:Vagina / Q000601:surgery*
D020099:Coated Materials, Biocompatible; D003094:Collagen