[Extracellular matrix for the replacement of ureteral defect]

This is an experiment on rabbits to evaluate the possibility of ureteral replacement by extracellular matrix. We adopted a biochemical method for preparing a new tissue engineering material named Extracellular Matrix (ECM), and the ECMs were used as homologous grafts to replace the defect in the ureters. Light microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, immunohistochemical technique and intravenous urography were used. The routine blood and biochemical laboratory tests were made before and after operation, and the measured values of pressure in the ureter of experiment and control groups were compared. The ureteral ECM was found in the experiment to promote the regeneration of all ureteral wall components. There were no significant differentces between the regenerative tissue and the normal tissue in morphology and function 16 weeks after replacement. The homologous ECM might be an ideal replacement material for ureteral defect.