Effect of sirolimus in the prevention of adhesions around intraabdominal prosthetic graft.

Abstract

Adhesions due to the reactions caused by the grafts used in primary vascular operations can lead to various problems when a secondary operation is necessary. These problems include bleeding, injuries to neighboring organs, and complications occurring due to a prolonged operation. We investigated the effects of sirolimus, which has antiproliferative features, on vascular adhesions. The abdominal aorta of rats was explored and abrasions applied. Following the fixation of a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) graft on the abdominal aorta, sirolimus (rapamycin) is applied (in powdered form) onto the grafts of the study group. Eight weeks later a laparotomy was repeated and any adhesions were evaluated. In the study group the adhesions were determined to be fewer in number and milder in severity. Severe cases of adhesion were determined in the control group. Therefore, sirolimus applied around the prosthesis in vascular operations was determined to be effective at preventing possible adhesions.