New alternatives in the preparation of chemically fixed human umbilical veins as arterial substitutes.

Following reports of the successful use of chemically processed human umbilical veins as medium and small diameter arterial substitutes, the development of new and improved techniques for the preparation, fixation and storage of these bioprostheses has been attempted. A series of physical and "in vitro" tests was undertaken to predict the "in vivo" performance of these devices. The results indicate that the new techniques are not only technically feasible but may provide a more convenient, versatile and effective surgical product.