Evaluation of properties for Carbothane™ 3575A–based electrospun vascular grafts in vitro and in vivo

Bioengineered vascular grafts (VGs) have emerged as a promising alternative to the treatment of damaged or occlusive vessels. It is thought that polyurethane (PU)-based scaffolds possess suitable hemocompatibility and biomechanics comparable to those of normal blood vessels. In this study, we investigated the properties of electrospun scaffolds comprising various blends of biostable polycarbonate-based PU (Carbothane™ 3575A) and gelatin. Scaffolds were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, infra-red spectroscopy, small-angle x-ray scattering, stress-loading tests, and interactions with primary human cells and blood. Data from<i>in vitro</i>experiments demonstrated that a scaffold produced from a blend of 5% Carbothane™ 3575A and 10% gelatin has proven to be a suitable material for fabricating a small-diameter VG. A comparative<i>in vivo</i>study of such VGs and expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) grafts implanted in the abdominal aorta of Wistar rats was performed. The data of intravital study and histological examination indicated that Carbothane-based electrospun grafts outclass ePTFE grafts and represent a promising device for preclinical studies to satisfy vascular surgery needs.