Human Umbilical-Cord Vein Grafts for Replacement of the Superior Vena-Cava

Abstract

We have used umbilical veins as experimental graft materials for superior vena cava replacement. The patency rate of these grafts in 25 laboratory animals was 96%; the mortality and graft thrombosis rate was 4%. Histopathologically, no evidence of rejection was detected in the graft material. These results suggest that umbilical veins are superior to other prosthetic materials as grafts in venous surgery.