This experimental study was designed to investigate the effect of irradiation in prevention of intimal hyperplasia.
Material and Methods:
Twenty rabbits were divided into 4 groups, which were irradiated with 2, 5, 10, and 20 Gy, respectively. The intima of both femoral arteries was injured by air-drying, and irradiation was performed on the unilateral side. The contralateral femoral artery served as a control. Angiograms as well as histologic specimens were obtained 1 month later.
Results:
Marked intimal hyperplasia was observed in all control sites. There were no significant differences in thickness of intimal hyperplasia between irradiated and control sites in groups irradiated with 2 and 5 Gy. However, in the 10-Gy- and 20-Gy-irradiated groups, intimal hyperplasia of the irradiated site was significantly suppressed. Medial thinning and dilation of the lumen were observed in the 20-Gy-irradiated group.
Conclusion:
Radiation may prevent intimal hyperplasia. Further investigation of the optimal dose, timing of irradiation, and long-term patency of irradiated vessels may be needed.
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