[Experimental study of the prostacyclin production of autogeneous vein graft]

In order to investigate the blood compatibility of autogenous vein graft (AVG), changes in prostacyclin (PGI2) production following harvesting and arterial implantation were studied experimentally. Basal PGI2 production, which means the value obtained without stimulation by arachidonic acid (AA), decreased significantly 60 minutes after harvesting. At this time, no morphological changes in the endothelial cells were observed. Under stimulation by AA, a significant decrease in the PGI2 production of the specimens was seen 120 minutes after harvesting. Despite severe morphological changes in endothelial cells, the PGI2 production of vein grafts was maintained until this time. The AVG in the canine abdominal aorta was completely reendothelialized 1 week after implantation, but another 2 weeks were needed to restore PGI2 production. It is concluded from these results: 1. It is rational to implant an AVG within 60 minutes after harvesting from the viewpoints of morphology and PGI2 production of the endothelial cells. 2. PGI2 production from sources other than endothelial cells is possible and may contribute to the compatibility of the AVG in the early period after implantation. 3. AVG in the aorta could restore PGI2 production 3 weeks after implantation.