Transplantation of cryopreserved cardiovascular homografts

Abstract

Due to degeneration, homografts were since the 1950s only used strictly for replacement of complex arterial segments and lesions incl. the aortic valve, replacement of infected arterial prostheses, and vascular access for patients on haemodialysis. During the 1990s, rate-differentiated freezing methods and anti-crystallization agents proved to prevent crystallisation, and more widespread use with expanded indications incl. coronary and lower limb bypasses began justified by promising midterm results. In 2021, the first Scandinavian homograft biobank was founded in Odense in Denmark. This review summarises the history and the experiences from this biobank.