Laryngotracheoplasty using the Medpor implant: an animal model.

OBJECTIVE: The Medpor implant (Porex Surgical, College Park, GA) is a porous polyethylene that has been used safely in areas in the head and neck. Medpor allows the in-growth of capillaries and soft tissue and reduces the risk of infection and extrusion. This study was undertaken to evaluate the use of the Medpor implant in laryngotracheal reconstruction and to compare epithelialization of the trachea following two different methods at various intervals. METHODS: Eight beagles were divided into two groups. The first group underwent laryngotracheoplasty using the Medpor implant only, whereas the second group had the Medpor implant lined with a strap muscle flap. One animal from each group was sacrificed at 5-, 7-, 9-, and 12-month intervals. The degree of stenosis, inflammation, and epithelialization were compared. RESULTS: The Medpor implant can safely be used to reconstruct the trachea in this animal model. There is less stenosis and better epithelialization when the Medpor implant is lined with a strap muscle flap. CONCLUSION: The Medpor implant can safely be used in laryngotracheal reconstruction in beagles.