Loss of seeded endothelial cells in vivo. a study of dacron grafts under different flow conditions

Objectives:

To assess, in vivo, the loss of endothelial cells seeded in a Dacron graft at low, restricted arterial flow and at normal unrestricted flow.

Design and setting:

Laboratory animal study.

Materials:

Indium-111-oxine labelled endothelial cells were seeded in externally supported, preclotted Dacron grafts, inserted as interposition grafts in the carotid arteries of nine sheep. Activity (radioactivity) was measured, flow established, on one side unrestricted 120–180 ml/minute, and on the other restricted to 50 ml/minute by a distal clamp.

Outcome measures:

The reduction in activity over the grafts was measured for 2 hours.

Results:

There was an immediate loss of activity to around 80% and thereafter a lower rate of cell loss to around 50%. No difference could be demonstrated in the loss from low flow compared to high flow grafts. All grafts were patent. There was no difference in thrombus weights.

Conclusion:

No difference could be demonstrated in seeded endothelial cell loss from a Dacron graft in vivo at low flow (50 ml/minute) compared with unrestricted flow (120–180 ml/minute).