Effect of Sirolimus on Intra-Abdominal adhesion development in a rat model

Abstract

Objective: Postoperative intraabdominal adhesions still cause significant morbidity in surgical patients. This study aims to evaluate the effects of an immunosuppressor known as Sirolimus and an antiadhesive membrane which is formed with sodium hyaluronate carboxymethylcellulose-based bioresorbable membrane (Seprafilm™) to the intraabdominal adhesion formation in a rat model.
 Materials and Methods: This experimental study was performed at an experimental research center, Yeditepe University Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul. Spraque-Dawley Rats, at a weight of about 250±20 gr, were used. Group 1 (n=8): Abdomen was closed after applying cecal abrasion (control group), group 2 (n=8): 10 x 30 mm Seprafilm™ was applied under the abdominal wall after cecal abrasion ( Seprafilm™ group ). Group 3 (n =8): Sirolimus (0,5 mg/kg) was applied (Sirolimus group). Adhesions quantitatively evaluated by a blinded assessor according to the classification of Nair and his colleagues.
 Results: Statistically significant difference in terms of adhesion severity scores according to the Nair classification was found between the Sirolimus and the control group (p=0,03). Whereas, no statistically significant difference was found between the Seprafilm™ and the control group (p=0,17). Similarly, no statistically significant difference was found between Seprafilm™ and sirolimus group (p=0,64).
 Conclusion: Although there was no statistically significant difference between intraperitoneal application of Sirolimus and Seprafilm™ group (p = 0.57), a statistically significant difference was found when each group compared with the control group (p=0,03). Combined anti-adhesive effect of Sirolimus and Seprafilm™ can be evaluated in future studies.