The Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Graft for Portacaval Interposition: An Experimental Observation

Authors

Alexander G. Yap
George Isshak
Ronald Lam
Roger F. Smith

Abstract

In an attempt to determine the efficacy of the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft as a portacaval interposition shunt, 26 mongrel dogs were randomly selected to receive a side-to-side shunt with a 6 mm, 8 mm, or 10 mm PTFE graft after portal hypertension had been created by hepatic vein ligation. The dogs were clinically observed, and if they showed signs of graft occlusion, they were reexplored surgically. The 6 mm graft had a 0% patency rate; the 8 mm graft had a 28.6% patency rate; and the 10 mm graft had an 87.5% patency rate. Histological examinations revealed adequate incorporation of the graft, formation of an endothelial layer, and absence of a thick intimal layer. In this experimental model, the PTFE graft served as a satisfactory portacaval interposition shunt when the 10 mm graft was used.

Recommended Citation

Yap, Alexander G.; Isshak, George; Lam, Ronald; and Smith, Roger F. (1981) "The Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Graft for Portacaval Interposition: An Experimental Observation," Henry Ford Hospital Medical Journal : Vol. 29 : No. 3 , 165-169.
Available at: https://scholarlycommons.henryford.com/hfhmedjournal/vol29/iss3/10