Development of a neo-artery induced by a biodegradable polymeric vascular prosthesis.

A microporous, compliant and biodegradable vascular prosthesis prepared from a polyurethane-poly-L-lactic-acid (PU-PLLA) mixture, induces fast growth of a neo-artery after implantation as an arterial substitute. The prostheses used in this study resulted in 100% patency. Mechanical functionality of the neo-arteries is suggested by the regeneration of elastic laminae throughout the subintimal tissue. The fact that elastogenesis occurs in our biodegradable PU-PLLA graft may be a step forward in solving the problem of how to maintain a natural compliance in vascular prostheses.