Piezoelectric Biomedical Material, Poly-L-Lactic Acid (PLLA), in the Treatment of Spinal Epidural Compression: Diagnosis, Monitoring, and Postoperative Support

Abstract

This study aims to design an intelligent biomedical piezoelectric material for monitoring the pressure in the spinal epidural space caused by postoperative hematoma compression (spinal epidural hematoma). Hematoma compression in the spinal epidural space is a clinically challenging condition that is difficult to diagnose, and failure to address it within forty-eight hours may lead to severe consequences. Given its urgency, prompt and accurate diagnosis and intervention are crucial. Due to its elusive diagnostic nature, patients often miss the opportune time for treatment. Therefore, this study utilizes poly L-lactic acid (PLLA), an FDA-approved highly biocompatible biomaterial. After undergoing high-pressure polarization, PLLA exhibits excellent piezoelectric properties, making it an ideal material for monitoring intracavitary pressure. Additionally, since postoperative hematoma formation is a primary cause of spinal epidural membrane compression, this study integrates urokinase, a potent thrombolytic protein, with PLLA electrospun fibers, enabling preliminary treatment upon pressure detection.This intelligent organic biomedical material not only enables real-time monitoring of postoperative spinal epidural space pressure but also passively utilizes ultrasound to release urokinase from PLLA fibers for initial treatment when pressure is detected. Furthermore, the application of electrospun PLLA biomedical material makes the material more easily moldable and simplifies the manufacturing process, expanding its potential applications. In summary, this technology combines expertise in organic materials science, electrochemistry, and clinical medicine, offering an innovative approach to addressing the crisis posed by hematoma compression in the spinal epidural space. In future clinical applications, this technology holds the promise of providing earlier and more effective treatment for patients, potentially becoming a significant breakthrough in the fields of medical electronics and biomedical engineering. Keywords: Piezoelectric Biomaterial, Pressure Monitoring Sensor, Drug Control Release, Postoperative Support, Diagnostic Innovation