Use of small intestine submucosa as ureteral allograft in pigs

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the biocompatibility of small intestine submucosa (SIS) in the reconstruction of the ureter in swine. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An experimental study was performed in 10 half-breed pigs weighing between 20 and 30 K, in which a previously prepared segment of SIS measuring approximately 2.0 cm was implanted in the upper third part of the right ureter. RESULTS: Of the 10 operated animals, one died 14 days after the surgery due to a dehiscence on the suture line of the implanted graft. The remaining 9 animals were submitted to ultrasound examinati...