Evaluation of in situ tissue-engineered arteriovenous grafts suitable for cannulation in a large animal model

This study evaluated the mechanical performance and remodeling behavior of biodegradable polycarbonate–bis-urea (PC-BU) vascular scaffolds reinforced with a 3D-printed supramolecular polycaprolactone coil, designed for arteriovenous (AV) grafts in hemodialysis. Using a goat model, the team demonstrated that the grafts maintained patency and structural integrity through repeated cannulation over 12 weeks. The engineered scaffolds gradually transformed into living, autologous vascular tissue with organized extracellular matrix deposition and functional endothelium, while avoiding aneurysm formation. The results indicate that in situ tissue-engineered grafts possess a self-healing capability during remodeling, offering potential as sustainable, infection-resistant vascular access solutions.