The use of polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore-Tex) grafts in reconstruction of the urinary bladder

The safety and histopathologic effects of polytetrafluoroethylene (Gore- Tex) grafts in reconstruction of the urinary bladder were examined. Following partial excision of the bladder Gore-Tex was placed, and the rats were sacrificed at days 7, 14 and 30. Gore-Tex did not cause urine infection, and there was no peritonitis or sepsis in any of the rats. Inflammation around the Gore-Tex diminished after four weeks. Some mononuclear cells and exudate were observed on the inner surface of the Gore-Tex. There was no inflammation or fibrosis in the mucosa and muscular layers of the remaining bladder. In this study the Gore-Tex graft was found to be an infection resistant, urine impermeable material, with no adverse effects on the urinary bladder. Gore- Tex is suggested as a safe material for the reconstruction of the urinary bladder.