[Structure and physicomechanical properties of the human dura mater from the age aspect]

The reconstructive surgery embracing a wide range of operations, when the dura mater is used as plastic material, requires a profound study of its physico-mechanical and structural properties. The dura mater obtained from 150 human corpses of persons at the age of 1 month of embryogenesis up to 90 years has been studied by means of morphological, histochemical methods and using the device for mechanical testing of various biological materials. In ontogenesis of the dura mater three states are arbitrary distinguished: development, stabilization of morphological structures and involutional-degenerative changes. Specific feature of each stage are described. Owing to the investigations performed, it is possible to state optimal time range for taking transplants and widening the limits for choosing for plastic material with the reference to the required strength, thickness,, stretching and elasticity.