ABSTRACT
Objective: To search for a satisfactory method for establishing Stanford B type aortic dissection model in canine. Methods: Totally 12 adult dogs were used in the present study. The proximal descending aorta was clamped partially and laterally after a left thoracotomy; half circumference of the aorta, including the media and adventitia,was cut open transversely, with the intima kept intact. The aortic wall was then separated inferiorly, laterally and superiorly at a special dissecting space with a unique dissecting device. Then the intima at the same site was also cut open transversely and the two ends of the distal intimal flap were sutured to the adjacent aorta to allow blood entry. The distal adventitia and media were sutured to the proximal aorta to close the incision. Follow-up was carried out with pigtail catheter guided digital subtraction angiography (DSA) using omnipaque (16-18 ml/s) via either of the common iliac arteries and color Doppler ultrasound. Results: Formation and distal extension of aortic dissections were observed immediately after the procedure and were further confirmed by intra-operative color Doppler ultrasound, DSA, and post-operative biopsy at different time points. Conclusion: The present two-end intimal flap suturing method can be used for establishing Stanford B type aortic dissection model in canine; the model is similar to human Stanford B type aortic dissection.