Thromboresistance of pyrolytic carbon grafts

This study reports in vivo testing of ULTI carbon coated dacron grafts in the dog's 4 mm carotid artery, and showed 97.5% patency at 21 days in 40 grafts compared to 33% in 6 control grafts. Physical properties of the dacron substrates were not altered after ULTI carbon deposition. The carbon coated grafts must be carefully cleaned and maintained in that condition. This initial study with the modified pyrolytic carbon adds a new dimension to vascular prosthetics and artificial organ development.