A microangiographic study of vascular changes in replanted and autotransplanted teeth of young dogs

The purpose of the present investigation was to study the revascularization process of the pulp of replanted and autotransplanted teeth with incomplete root development in dogs. A barium-sulfate injection method combined with contact microradiography was used. Ingrowth of apparently new vessels was seen during the first postoperative days. After 10 days, visible vessels were seen in the apical half of the pulp, and after 30 days, in the whole pulp. Branches and apparently also anastomoses between pulpal vessels were seen after 10 days but were especially numerous after 30 days. One hundred eighty days postoperatively, only one of fifteen teeth was devoid of visible vessels, indicating pulpal necrosis. Thirteen of the remaining fourteen teeth exhibited visible vessels throughout the entire length of the pulp. It seems, therefore, that replanted and autotransplanted teeth with open apices have a high potential for repair. The revascularization of the pulp appeared to occur mainly by ingrowth of new vessels. In some instances, however, anastomoses seemed to form to pre-existing vessels in the pulp.