A circumferentially elastic arterial prosthesis: three-year studies of a Dacron-Spandex graft in the dog

A circumferentially elastic, compliant arterial prosthesis has been developed consisting of a Dacron-polyether urethane (Spandex) weave. The prosthesis can acutely alter its cross section area after implantation in response to changes in flow and pressure. It shows favorable host incorporation and healing properties when studied after 3 years in the dog thoracic aorta and does not dilate significantly over that time. There is some suggestion that its initially elastic properties, present during the early days after implantation, make it more compliant during this healing period and more adaptable to the actual flow conditions present at the time of its insertion.