Use of homologous acellular dermal matrix for abdominal wall reconstruction in rats

Homologous acellular dermal matrix graft (HADMG) has been used for the reconstructions of bowel, bladder, or urethra, but its suitability in the reconstruction of abdominal wall has not been tested. Therefore an experimental study was performed to evaluate the use of HADMG for the reconstruction of abdominal wall defects in weanling rats. Thirty weanling Wistar rats were used. A patch of abdominal wall 20 x 20 mm in dimension was removed. The defects were reconstructed with HADMGs that were derived from rat skin and prepared through a detergent enzymatic method. The reconstructed abdominal walls were evaluated as hernia rate and graft take ratio, excised and prepared for histological examination at 21 (n = 10), 40 (n = 10), and 90 (n = 10) days postoperation. The healing of repaired abdominal walls was uneventful. Histological evaluation demonstrated the migration of fibroblasts and neovascularization within the HADMG. Hernia in four rats were developed at 90 days. Neither significant wound contraction nor inflammation was seen at 21, 40, and 90 days after surgery in wounds receiving HADMGs. Thus, the use of a HADMG for reconstructing the abdominal wall in weanling rats has not given rise to any complications. HADMG has progressively remodeled into fibrous tissue. It appears to represent an important alternative substitute for the reconstruction of abdominal wall.