Nanoskin® Subcutaneous Implant in Guinea Pigs.

Abstract

To evaluate the suitability of Nanoskin, a biomaterial derived from bacterial cellulose, as an alternate material for repairing the posterior lamellae of the eyelids. Forty guinea pigs received a fragment of Nanoskin subcutaneously in the dorsal region. The animals received Nanoskin (group 1) or Nanoskin coated with a gelatin layer (group 2). The animals were observed daily for over 7, 30, 90, or 180 days with the subcutaneous implants in place. The animals were euthanized at a designated time and the Nanoskin was removed for histologic, morphometric, and transmission electron microscopy evaluation. The results were similar for both groups. The subcutaneously implanted Nanoskin resulted in good tissue integration, induced mild inflammation, and was surrounded by a delicate pseudocapsule. The good tissue integration of Nanoskin in study indicates that it may be a potential material for application as a substitute of posterior eyelid lamellar tissue. Further clinical studies are required to confirm the preliminary outcomes of this experimental study.