A new pericardium vascular prosthesis: mechanical behavior, SEM analyses and clinical indications

This study deals with the mechanical characterization of a new vascular prosthesis. The prosthesis, made from a single portion of pericardial tissue, is bifurcated, crimped and not porous. The clinical use of this graft could increase hemocompatibility of the device compared to polymeric grafts and reduce the compliance mismatch between the natural vessel and the graft. Several mechanical analyses were performed to evaluate the load-displacement and the cyclic loading characteristics of the graft. Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate the tissue and suture line morphology before and after mechanical failure. The preliminary results of some clinical cases are also reported. The results point out that the prostheses, developed using correct technological procedures, show a mechanical behavior similar to that of natural arteries and could be successfully used in selected patients.