The viability of the use the bovine umbilical membrane preserved in 98% glycerin implanted in the cervical trachea was studied. Seven adult mongrel dogs, three males and four females weighting 6 to 14 kg, were used. After the usual anesthesia protocol and asseptic technique, three tracheal rings were partially removed for implantation of a segment of the umbilical membrane. The animals were observed during 30 days and then reoperated for macroscopic observations and for fragment collection for histological evaluation. It occurred a repair of the tracheal lesion, with formation of granulation tissue rich in collagen fibers linking the extremities of the tracheal cartilages. Epithelial migration over the tracheal surface was also seen. It is concluded that the segment of the bovine umbilical cord preserved in 98% glycerin can be used in the repair of tracheal defects. It offers a temporary support for granulation tissue formation and epithelization in the implanted area.
Implants; Surgery; Healing; Trachea; Umbilical cord
