A New in vivo Evaluation Method of Antithrombogenicity Using a Polymer-Coated Suture Inserted into the Peripheral Vein

Abstract

An in vivo test for the estimation of blood compatibility of pliable sutures coated with the test polymer was developed. An 18 gauge needle was inserted into the peripheral vein of a dog under general anesthesia and a polymer- coated suture was inserted through the needle into the lumen of the vessel. After a given period of time the vein in which the suture had been inserted was opened and observations were carried out by light microscopy, and by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. This method has several advantages; it is a simple procedure, there is minimal surgical intervention, and vessel injury is negligible.