Purpose: To report the use of hexamethyldisilazane (HMDS) as an alternative to critical point drying for preparing stented canine peripheral vessels for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Conclusions: HMDS treatment and subsequent air drying provides good quality scanning electron micrographs that reveal both endothelial patterns and the layered architecture of stented vessels.
The disadvantage of HMDS drying may be a shrinkage and distortion similar to other drying agents. Ease of handling, low cost, and a high rate of success are advantages that favor HMDS desiccation over other drying methods.