Scanning electron microscopy evaluation of endothelial regeneration in 1-mm PTFE prostheses

This study documents the developmental stages of neoendothelium regeneration in 1-mm polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) prostheses. Scanning electron microscopy was used to follow the progression of platelet deposition, fibrin layering, and endothelial cell migration along the graft. The endothelial healing process was divided into six stages: platelet aggregation (stage I); fibrin network (stage II); bridging (stage III); progression (stage IVA); transmural migration (stage IVB); intimal closure (stage V); and endothelial thromboresistance (stage VI).