Experimental investigations on a model of cryogenic edema.

The role of mechanisms underlying formation and progression of vasogenic brain edema is investigated. On this purpose, cerebral edema was produced by cortical freezing in two different brain situations in rabbits (with or without replacement of bone flap). BBB (Blood-Brain Barrier) breakdown was evaluated by observation of Evans blue extravation, while a histopathological evaluation was carried out by light and transmission electron microscopy. Water content of brain tissue was determined by the wet/dry weight ratio method. Comparison of extension and intensity of cerebral edema between these two groups of animals shows a statistically significant difference: there was evidence of higher wa…