OBJECTIVETo evaluate the histocompatibility of homologous acellular dermal matrix as a wrapping material for a hydroxyapatite orbital implant and compare the speed of fibrovascular ingrowth in hydroxyapatite orbital implant wrapped with homologous acellular dermal matrix and homologous sclera respectively.

METHODSTwenty four New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups randomly. One group is implanted with hydroxyapatite orbital implant wrapped with homologous acellular dermal matrix behind the globe, the other group with homologous sclera. The observation included immunological reaction of the globe postoperation. Biopsies of implanted material were taken on weeks 1, 4, 8 and 12 postoperation for histopathological and electron microscope examination.

RESULTSHistological examination showed the homologous acellular dermal matrix has no immunological and inflammatory reaction after implanted in orbit. But the speed of fibrovascular ingrowth is a little slower than that of homologous sclera.

CONCLUSIONSThe homologous acellular dermal matrix has the better histocompatibility as an encapsulating biomaterial, it can be a new material instead of homologous sclera.