Autogenous Lateral Saphenous Vein and Fascia Lata Grafts Used in the Repair of Ureteral Defects in Dogs.

Abstract

Biological grafts such as fascia lata and the lateral saphenous vein, previously used in urethral repairs, show potential for ureteral reconstruction due to their biocompatibility and regenerative properties. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using the lateral saphenous vein and fascia lata as prosthetic options for ureteral reconstruction in dogs. Conducted as a prospective experimental study using canine cadavers, the procedures involved the collection and preservation of both graft types in Ringer's lactate solution prior to use. The lateral saphenous vein was reimplanted through continuous suturing of the ureteral ends, whereas the fascia lata was moulded into a tubular structure using 6-0 polypropylene vascular suture and subsequently reimplanted using the same technique. Both methods were assessed for surgical difficulty, procedure time and occurrence of contrast extravasation. The results revealed that the fascia lata graft showed significant leakage following implantation, indicating poor sealing capacity and unsuitability for in vivo use. In contrast, the lateral saphenous vein demonstrated promising results, with successful contrast passage in several cases and reduced extravasation, supporting its potential as a viable prosthetic material for ureteral repair. On the basis of these findings, the lateral saphenous vein may offer a practical surgical alternative in clinical cases requiring ureteral reconstruction in dogs.