Natural latex membranes in experimental diaphragmatic hernioplasty in dogs

Latex membranes were experimentally used to repair diaphragmatic defects in 12 dogs, distributed in 3 groups. In group 1, a commercial membrane was used, and in group 2, an experimental membrane. Group 3, animals were used as control. A rectangular defect (4cm in length and 3cm in width) was surgically performed in the diaphragm muscle, which was substituted, in group 1 and 2, by the implantation of corresponding latex membrane. The animals were evaluated by radiography, blood count, video-surgery, and histologic study. Results showed that the latex membrane of group 2, were efficient in the correction of the defect in the diaphragm, promoting the repairing and local neovascularization, without causing rejection during the evaluated period.