Fabrication, characterization and in vitro accelerated degradation of polypropylene/poly (glycolide-ε-caprolactone) warp-knitted hernia repair mesh

Abstract

The mechanical properties and biocompatibility of hernia repair mesh have been difficult to achieve an optimal balance. In this paper, polypropylene (PP)/Poly(glycolide-ε-caprolactone) (PGCL) partially degradable hernia repair meshes were prepared through the warp-knitting process and its advantages were demonstrated. Basic properties of the materials and the mechanical properties of the meshes were tested and compared. Furthermore, in vitro accelerated degradation tests were performed on meshes (E14) by using five kinds of alkali solution. The degradation effect was reflected by the apparent morphologic change, weight, and strength loss rate of the mesh. The results show that the mesh has excellent mechanical properties, and accelerated degradation in vitro provides degradation results quickly. Among them, the degradation situation of meshes in Na2CO3 solution was more similar to that of phosphate buffered solution solution. The PP skeleton of mesh remains relatively stable after the degradation of PGCL, and the residual strength can still meet the clinical requirements. This study presents a promising step for the preparation and subsequent degradation of partially degradable hernia repair mesh.