Abstract
The aim of this work was to investigate of biocompatibility of polymeric implants modified with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Middle ear prostheses (otoimplants) made of the (poly)acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) and ABS modified with silver nanoparticles were prepared through extrusion and injection moulding process. The obtained prostheses were characterized by SEM-EDX, micro-CT and mechanical tests, confirming their proper shape, good AgNPs homogenization and mechanical parameters stability. The biocompatibility of the implants was evaluated in vivo on rats, after 4, 12, 24 and 48 weeks of implantation. The tissue-healing process and cytotoxicity of the implants were evaluated on the basis of microscopic observations of the materials morphology after histochemical staining with cytochrome c oxidase (OCC) and acid phosphatase (AP), as well as via micro-tomography (ex vivo). The in vivo studies confirmed biocompatibility of the implants in the surrounding tissue environment. Both the pure ABS and nanosilver-modified ABS implants exhibited a distinct decrease in the area of granulation tissue which was replaced with the regenerating muscle tissue. Moreover, a slightly smaller area of granulation tissue was observed in the surroundings of the silver-doped prosthesis than in the case of pure ABS prosthesis. The kinetics of silver ions releasing from implants was investigated by ICP-MS spectrometry. The measurement confirmed that concentration of the silver ions increased within the implant’s immersion period. Our results showed that middle ear implant with the nanoscale modification is biocompatible and might be used in ossicular reconstruction.
Highlights
The need to replace or reconstruct ossicles has led to the development of surgical techniques enabling innovative prostheses implantation
There are various factors determining the success of the operations, such as the proper length of the prosthesis, stability of implantation, recurring illnesses, risk of inflammation, and reaming out the ear to provide passage of air [1,2]
Another important factor is the presence of either anatomic incus or stapes that facilitate the stability of the prosthesis fixation
Summary
The need to replace or reconstruct ossicles has led to the development of surgical techniques enabling innovative prostheses implantation. There are various factors determining the success of the operations, such as the proper length of the prosthesis, stability of implantation, recurring illnesses, risk of inflammation, and reaming out the ear to provide passage of air [1,2]. Another important factor is the presence of either anatomic incus or stapes that facilitate the stability of the prosthesis fixation. Despite the possible difficulties and complications, both partial [3,4,5] and total prostheses [6] are effective in ossicular chain reconstructions
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call