Objective:To explore the possibility of dermis grafts as the replacement of flexor tendons. Methods:Dermis grafts were used as the replacement of flexor tendons in rabbits.The intact normal flexor tendons were used for control.The dermis grafts were observed in morphology

histology

the new blood vessels and the ultrastructure

and were measured with Instron-1011 Tester.Results:At the end of 24 weeks after the replacement procedure

the appearance and shapes of grafts and the new blood vessels and the arrangments of collagen-fibril bundles in grafts were similar to the controls and the maximum stress and the maximum strain in the"toe region"of the grafts were close to those of controls(P>0.05).the hair follicles and the sebaceous glands in the grafts were degenerated completely by the end of 24 weeks postoperatively.Conclusion:The flexor tendons could be replaced by dermis grafts.