OBJECTIVETo investigate the histocompatibility of acellular xenogeneic dermal matrix implanted in the rabbit eyelid reconstruction in situ and to compare the histological change of acellular xenogeneic dermal matrix and sclera replacing tarsus.

METHODSThirty-six New Zealand rabbits were divided into two groups randomly. Establishment of the rabbits unilateral eyelid defect model, the eyelid reconstruction in situ were performed with either acellular xenogeneic dermal matrix or allogeneic sclera at random. The rabbits were clinically examined for inflammation and implant exposure and sacrificed 1, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks after implantation. The eyelid with implant (Xeno-ADM or allogeneic sclera) were dislodged and the specimens were assessed histopathologically and ultrastructurally with light microscopies respectively for evaluation of change of juncture between implant and autoallergic tarsal plates including inflammation, vascularization and confluence. The 4, 8 and 12 weeks specimens were assessed with transmission electron microscope micro structural changes of the above organizations.

RESULTSLight microscopy and electron microscopy showed no statistical difference between two groups. But histological examination showed that eyelid implanted with acellular xenogeneic dermal matrix had less immunological and inflammatory reaction than sclera-implanted group. Acellular xenogeneic dermal matrix could induce neovascular and collagenous fibers into implanted tissue.

CONCLUSIONAcellular xenogeneic dermal matrix is histocompatible to New Zealand rabbit, it can be used to support the eyelid as a substitution for tarsus.