The electron microscopy of the effects of treatment with coumarin (Venalot) and by thoracic duct cannulation on thermal injuries.

The effects of coumarin (Venalot) and of external lymphatic drainage were examined with the electron microscope in rat hind legs and mouse ears that were injured by heat. Coumarin, especially when lymph drainage was added, greatly reduced the amounts of protein in the tissues and the concomitant oedema fluid, lymphatic dilatation, open interendothelial junctions and lymph protein concentration. While there were crude indications that the increased blood vascular permeability was unchanged, it was considered that there was insufficient evidence to decide between the various hypotheses as to the modes of action of these treatments.