Effects of the novel polymer gel LeGoo on human internal thoracic arteries.

Purpose Established hemostatic devices can injure vessel wall integrity. LeGoo (Pluromed, Woburn, MA), a novel poloxamer gel with reverse thermosensitive properties, is a new device for temporary occlusion of blood vessels. The present study investigated the effects of LeGoo on vascular function and morphology. Description The distal end of the human internal thoracic artery was used to assess vascular function of LeGoo-applied segments in organ bath experiments and by scanning electron microscopy. Evaluation After LeGoo application, both maximal contractile responses to noradrenaline and endothelium-dependent relaxant responses to acetylcholine were significantly reduced. Scanning electron…