External stent inhibits long-term atherosclerosis of autologous vein graft in hypercholesterolemic rabbits / 第二军医大学学报

ABSTRACT

Objective:To study the long-term inhibitory effect of external stent on atherosclerosis of autologous vein graft in hypercholesterolemic rabbit and the possible mechanism.Methods:Hypercholesterolemic model was established in 15 rabbits and their bilateral jugular veins were anastomosed with bilateral carotid arteries.One jugular vein graft was stented with a polytetrafluoroethylene tube(external stent group)and the other receiving no stenting served as control(unstent group).Ultrasound was used to evaluate the haemodynamics 12 weeks after operation.The grafts were harvested to examine the thickness and area of intima and media,the deposition of lipid in the vessel wall,and the distribution of VCAM-1 positive cells.Scanning electron microscope(SEM)was used to evaluate the regeneration of endothelium.Results:Ultrasound results showed that the stent group was laminar blood flow and the control group had vortex flow.The thickness and areas of intima and media were significantly lower in the stent group than in the control group(P