Barbora East, MD, PhD1, Radek Divin, Mgr2, Vera Sovkova, Mgr, PhD2, Karolina Vocetkova, Mgr2, Staffa Andrea, Mgr, PhD3, Martin Otahal, Ing, PhD4, Evzen Amler, prof, RNDr, PhD5. 11st and 2nd medical faculty, Charles University in Prague, Motol University Hospital, 2UCEEB, CVUT Prague, 3Veterinary University, Brno, 4CVUT, Prague, 52nd medical faculty, Charles University in Prague
Introduction: With the growing number of patient complaints related to various long term side effects of surgical meshes, the search for the ideal mesh is still on. Reconsidering the mechanical properties of a standard surgical mesh, and accepting a theory of “bio”-scaffolding, nanofibrous materials that pose the 3D structure of an extracellular matrix may speed up the initial stages of tissue repair/healing.
Materials and methods: Polycaprolactone (PCL) is a soluble slowly biodegradable polymer from the polyester family widely used in tissue engineering. This polymer was tested in forspan or electrospun forms, by itself, or embedded with growth factors and platelet rich plasma, or in combination with large pore polypropylene mesh (composite). “Spray-on” nanofibers were also tested. All spun PCL preparations were quantified by scanning electron microscopy). Tests were performed in vitro on 3T3 fibroblasts and in vivo (rabbits, minipigs). Standard large pore PP mesh and plain suture were used as controls.
Results: Large variability in the diameter of nanofibers produced was seen depending on the solution ratios, voltage and method of production. Dynamic creep properties of healing fascia (both static and dynamic) were significantly better in the suture compared to PP mesh group after six weeks of implantation. Composite mesh showed better incorporation than PP mesh. Plain nanofibers had the most favorable results with the surrounding collagen showing the highest level of maturity and alignment. However, there was marked variability in response depending on the diameter of the spun PCL.
Conclusion: Spun PCL as a slowly resorbable biological scaffold ‘mesh’ shows significant benefits in vitro and in vivo studies in terms of healing response. Diameter of the spun PCL is one of many variables to be determined before the era of nanomedicine will become a clinical reality.
Presented at the SAGES 2017 Annual Meeting in Houston, TX.
Abstract ID: 98810
Program Number: ETP781
Presentation Session: Emerging Technology Poster Session (Non CME)
Presentation Type: Poster