Experimental study of bioactive polyurethane sponge as an artificial trachea.

Abstract

An artificial trachea that has tissue reconstructive activity and elasticity that matches a biologic trachea was fabricated using a polyurethane sponge (PS). The inner surfaces of the PS were modified by immobilizing collagen, fibronectin, RGD peptide, a coating of collagen, and apatite. Two PS pore sizes were prepared, 150 to 350 microns (small pore) and 350 to 710 microns (large pore). When they were implanted in the subcutaneous tissue of rats, study of the implantation showed severe inflammatory cell infiltration with the treated PS, especially with collagen and collagen coating. Infiltration and maturity of fibroblasts inside the PS were noted with fibronectin. Infiltration of inflammatory cells and fibroblasts was noted with small pore PS compared with large pore PS. Partial tracheal defects were patched with PS. Better epithelization of PS patches was observed with fibronectin and apatite compared with the others. The artificial trachea made of PS was transplanted into the tracheas of dogs. No separation of the anastomosis and tissue reconstruction of the artificial trachea wall were observed; however, sputum absorption and tracheal granulation were seen.