The Influence of Elastic Components of the Venous Wall on the Biomechanical Properties of Different Veins Used for Arterial Reconstruction

ObjectiveTo evaluate the relationship between the biomechanical properties and the structure of elastic components in different veins used for vascular reconstruction.DesignIn vitro experimental study.Material and methodsGroups of 30 samples of incompetent saphenous veins (rSV), competent saphenous veins (cSV) and femoral veins (FVs) were compared following immunohistochemical staining for the presence of collagen types I, III and IV and elastin. The percentage area of transverse section of veins occupied by each type of collagen and elastin was measured using a computer-image-analysis system connected to a microscope. For all three groups of veins, the storage modulus, E′, and the loss modulus, E′′, were measured with a mechanical analyser, DMA-242, and changes in the function of temperature and frequency, and duration of exposure to the applied force were determined.ResultsThe rSV showed the highest percentage share of collagen I and the lowest percentage share of collagen IV. These samples also showed the greatest expression of elastin and the highest elastin to collagen ratio. The rSV were also found to have the highest E′ and E′′, and during the long-term exposure achieved maximum stiffness in the least time as compared to cSV and FV.ConclusionThe histological structure directly influences the biomechanical properties of venous wall with rSV showing least compliance and cSV the greatest compliance.