Defibrinogenation by Arvin reduces air-drying-induced arteriosclerosis in rat carotid artery

The effects of lowering plasma fibrinogen levels by Arvin injections have been investigated in a rat model of arteriosclerosis. In this model air-drying-induced endothelial denudation of the left carotid artery results in myointimal lesion development. Arvin (2 x 50 Units/kg) was given at 4 and 2 hours prior to surgery, reducing plasma fibrinogen levels at surgery to about 20%. Fibrinogen levels then normalized within 24 hours. Myointimal lesion development was evaluated morphometrically at 14 days after surgery. Statistical analysis of the morphometric data showed that defibrinogenation had resulted in significantly smaller myointimal lesions. Low plasma fibrinogen levels might thus be considered a negative risk factor for intimal smooth muscle cell proliferation in this model.