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Glutaraldehyde release from vascular prostheses of biologic origin
D Wiebe1, J Megerman, G J L'Italien
1Vascular Research Laboratory, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Mass. 02114.
Surgery
|July 1, 1988
Summary
This study developed a glutaraldehyde (GA) cytotoxicity assay using endothelial cells. The assay detected significant GA release from vascular grafts, potentially impacting implant success and graft stability.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Cell Biology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Glutaraldehyde (GA) is used for preserving biologic vascular prostheses.
- Concerns exist regarding residual GA and its impact on graft performance.
- Endothelial cell behavior is crucial for vascular graft integration and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish a sensitive cytotoxicity assay for glutaraldehyde (GA) concentration.
- To quantify residual GA released from commercial biologic vascular prostheses.
- To investigate the effects of GA on endothelial cell growth and attachment.
Main Methods:
- Developed a cytotoxicity assay based on the growth inhibition of human venous endothelial cells.
- Measured residual GA released from vascular prostheses using the developed assay.
- Assessed endothelial cell attachment to surfaces after GA exposure.
Main Results:
- The GA assay is sensitive, detecting concentrations between 0-5 ppm.
- Significant GA release (up to 13.8 ppm/g/24h) was measured from vascular grafts after 1 month.
- GA exposure inhibited endothelial cell growth and reduced cell attachment efficiency.
Conclusions:
- Residual GA release from vascular prostheses may hinder endothelialization.
- GA release could indicate collagen cross-link instability in preserved grafts.
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays may predict aneurysm formation risk in biologic grafts.