The impracticability of using fascia for the gradual occlusion of large arteries

Abstract

1. 1. A method of partial occlusion of arteries with six to eight turns of heavy fascia was attempted. This amount of connective tissue was used in the hope of inducing enough scar tissue contracture to complete the obstruction. 2. 2. This method was used on the thoracic aorta of dogs in ten experiments and the abdominal portion below the renal vessels in six instances. 3. 3. With a plastic substance such as tissue strips it is difficult to judge the degree of constriction. Because of this three animals were killed by too great obstruction of the thoracic aorta. 4. 4. In four instances the arterial wall atrophied and ruptured at the site of the constricting device. Rupture occurred in from seven to seventeen days after operation. 5. 5. In the remaining nine experiments relaxation of the fascia invariably occurred. Restitution of the caliber of the lumen was partial in one month and complete in from two to three months. Resorption of the tissue bands occurred in from three to four months. 6. 6. The results of these experiments permit the conclusion that fascia is an unreliable and somewhat dangerous material to use for partial occlusion of the great vessels.