FIG. 4.

Histological analysis of TEVG: TEVGs in lambs explanted at 6 months after implantation resemble native blood vessels. (A) Scaffold. Before surgical implantation, all grafts were measured and cut to 20 mm in length. (B) At time of explantation, seeded scaffolds had transformed into neovessels resembling native inferior vena cava. (C–E) H&E staining revealed cellular architecture in the grafts resembling that of native vessels. Masson's trichrome staining showed robust collagen formation in both the groups. There was no evidence of ectopic calcification (Von Kossa). Elastin staining was present in both the groups but not as well developed as seen in the native IVC (Elastica Van Gieson [EVG] and Hart's stain). Glycosaminoglycan staining was seen in both the groups (Alcian blue stain). H&E, hematoxylin and eosin. Color images available online at www.liebertpub.com/tec