Dynamic model for the development and testing of a tracheal prosthesis under preclinical conditions.

The development of a tracheal prosthesis was evaluated using in vivo data on mechanical loads in the natural organ. The application of in vivo loads to the explanted organ in a laboratory tester was shown to give information on the natural reaction forces of the organ. It is therefore possible to perform in vitro tests on various prosthesis prototypes under near-natural stress conditions and to adapt the prostheses accordingly before implantation.