Importance

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Abstract

Composite vascular grafts, their methods of construction, and methods of use are disclosed. In some embodiments, the grafts are tubular multilayer composite grafts having a luminal blood-contacting elastin layer and an outer collagen layer to impart mechanical strength to the elastin layer. The elastin and collagen layers may comprise substantially acelluar matrixes isolated from the tissue of an animal. In particular embodiments the blood contacting layer consists essentially of pure elastin, and is substantially free of collagen. An adhesive may be used to secure the collagen and elastin layers to one another. Growth factors may be added to the adhesive of the elastin or collagen layers to promote in growth of cells into the graft.

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First Claim