[Vascular replacement of small caliber arteries--a new bovine collagen prosthesis].

A new bovine collagenic prosthesis (Solcograft P) was tested in animal experiments. In 45 dogs the infrarenal abdominal aorta was substituted. During a follow-up period of up to 18 months the functional rate amounted to 88%. Joint-crossing iliaco-femoral bypasses were implanted in 31 dogs, 5 times in both sides. For the new bovine collagenic graft the functional rate ran up to 83%, during a follow-up period of 9 months. A wound infection was observed twice in the inguinal region thus exacting the removal of the prosthesis. An aneurysm was not observed. In our opinion the satisfying results are due to the compliance of the new prosthesis which is similar to natural artery.