Application of Xenogenic Acellular Dermal Matrix for Reconstruction of Cervical Tracheal Defects in a Rabbit Model

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the safety of xenogenic acellular dermal matrix for tracheal reconstruction and to explore the process and effectiveness of mucosal repair. Methods: A total of 22 rabbits were divided into the control group and the experimental group. A 3-ring, 120-degree tracheal patch was resected, and the tracheal wall was reconstructed by xenogenic acellular dermal matrix (experimental group) or cervical fascia (control group). Symptoms of the animals, morphology, and micromorphology of the reconstructed tracheas area were evaluated at 1, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 24 weeks postoperatively. Results: In the control group, 1 rabbit got subcutaneous emphysema and the rabbit died of airway obstruction. Tracheal stenosis was observed in all the animals. In the experimental group, no animal showed ingrowth of granulation tissue or accumulation of secretion of the trachea. The acellular dermal matrix got rapidly vascularized and epithelized with ciliated cells. Goblet cells could be observed 24 weeks postoperatively. Conclusion: The tracheas were successfully reconstructed by the acellular dermal matrix, and they are stable with well-functional epithelial lining. This is a simple, safe, and effective surgical method with few complications. As a medical device, this thin membrane would expand the choice of repair materials during tracheal reconstruction.