A comparison of the behaviour of autologous and homologous platelets in microporous polyurethane grafts. An experimental study in sheep.

In experimental studies in sheep the behaviour of autologous and homologous platelets in microporous polyurethane grafts was compared at a flow rate of 25 ml/min. The grafts were interposed to replace segments of resected carotid arteries. The deposition of 32P-labelled platelets on the graft wall was recorded, as were graft patency, thrombus weight and thrombus-free surface. Compared to autologous platelets, homologous platelets accumulated over longer periods of time and in greater numbers, leading to deposition of larger amounts of thrombus material and reduced patency.