The take of an autologous free RPE and choroid graft: an in vivo experiment.

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose: In patients with exudative age–related macular degeneration, the surgical removal of the subfoveal choroidal neovascular membrane with the subsequent translocation of an autologous midperipheral full–thickness graft of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid under the macula is a potentially succesfull new treatment. Building on the encouraging clinical data, we wished to study whether revascularisation occurs in an animal model and to identify factors that promote an ideal take of the patch. Methods: In 12 miniature pigs we translocated a choroid–RPE–patch to differently prepared recipient sites. We sacrifize the animals after 3 months and evaluation occurs with the use of light microscopy, immunohistochemical staining and transmission electron microscopy. Results: Revascularization of the patch was identified in some areas, when the patch choroid was in contact with the recipient Bruch’s membrane. Conclusions: Revascularization of the patch may occur after translocation. When the patch is flatly placed on the recipient, the take is more likely to be successful.

Keywords: age–related macular degeneration • transplantation • pathology: experimental