From a synthetic, microporous, compliant, biodegradable small-caliber vascular graft to a new artery.

Microporous, compliant, biodegradable vascular grafts prepared from physical mixtures of polyurethane and poly(L)lactide acid can function as temporary scaffolds for the regeneration of a new arterial wall. In this overview article, the basic ideas behind the properties and construction of these grafts, the basic mechanisms of regeneration, and the scope, limitations, and further prospectives of the use of these biodegradable grafts are reviewed and discussed among literature.