The pony as an animal model for vascular implants.

The study investigates the viability of using a pony as an animal model for vascular implant research, by examining graft patency and the effectiveness of antithrombotic drugs. The results suggest that the pony, due to the similarity in size and lifespan to humans, as well as its response to medication, is a valuable model for vascular implant studies.

Research Methodology

• The research involved evaluating the pony as a potential model for vascular implant research. The assessment was carried out with healthy, conditioned ponies categorized into three randomly assigned groups.
• The first group involved six ponies (Group I) where carotid artery autografts were employed.
• In the second group (Group II) five ponies underwent e-PTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene) carotid interpositional grafts.
• The third group (Group III) also received e-PTFE carotid interpositional grafts. However, an additional administration of aspirin (10 mg/kg) and dipyridamole (3.5 mg/kg) drug was included.

Findings and Results

• The research results were determined by monitoring the longevity (patency) of the grafts using two-dimensional real-time ultrasonography with Doppler velocimetry and/or arteriography.
• The longest lasting or most patent grafts were autografts (396.2 days average and still patent at the time of writing). The Group III grafts followed with an average patency of 157.5 days, while the Group II grafts were found to be patent for the shortest duration – 61.1 days. This difference in patency was statistically significant (p less than 0.01).

Implications and Considerations

• The study also evaluated the pony’s response to antithrombotic drugs. The results were consistent and comparable to those in other animal models, affecting both platelet function and patency rate.
• Considering the easy surgical manipulations, drug administration and test of platelet function, the comparable size of the pony’s heart and blood vessels with those of an adult human, the long life span and the patency of the grafts, the study concludes the pony can serve as a valuable model for vascular implant research.