Abstract
ObjectivePorcine acellular dermal matrices (ADM) have been widely used in experimental and clinical research for abdominal wall repair. Compared to porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS), the effect of these matrices on the regenerative capacity of blood vessels is still not ideal. Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) can more effectively transport VEGF to cells or tissues because of their large specific surface area and interior cavity. In this study, we explored the safety and efficacy of implanted VEGF-loaded MWNT composite scaffolds in vitro and vivo to repair abdominal wall defects.Materials and MethodsVEGF-loaded MWNTs were prepared by a modified plasma polymerization treatment. Four composite scaffolds were evaluated for cytotoxicity, proliferation, and release dynamics. We created 3 cm×4 cm abdominal wall defects in 43 Sprague-Dawley rats. After implantation times of 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks, the scaffolds and the surrounding tissues were collected and examined by gross inspection, biomechanical testing, and histological examination.ResultsA 5–10 nm poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) film was evenly distributed on MWNTs. The 3% MWNT composite group showed lower cytotoxicity and appropriate release performance, and it was thus tested in vivo. In rats with the 3% composite implanted, host cells were prevented from migrating to the ADM at 2 weeks, vascularization was established more rapidly at 12 weeks, and the values for both the maximum load and the elastic modulus were significantly lower than in the ADM-alone group (p<0.01). Histological staining revealed that the MWNT was still not completely eliminated 12 weeks after implantation.ConclusionMWNTs were able to carry VEGF to cells or tissues, and the 3% MWNT composite material showed lower cytotoxicity and had an appropriate release performance, which prompted faster vascularization of the ADM than other scaffolds. Nevertheless, the MWNTs induced harmful effects that should be carefully considered in biomedical studies.
Highlights
The treatment of hernias, especially for those that are large incisional and recurrent, poses a formidable challenge to the abdominal surgeon
A 5–10 nm poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) film was evenly distributed on Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs)
Characterization of MWNTs by X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) The MWNTs were characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD)
Summary
The treatment of hernias, especially for those that are large incisional and recurrent, poses a formidable challenge to the abdominal surgeon. Many different methods have been explored to repair these defects, but using non-absorbable materials to achieve tension-free closure of abdominal wall defects is still the most important reconstructive technique. These materials may cause infection and chronic pain in the surgical area [1,2], but may contribute to the dysfunction of other organs, and cause complications such as bowel adherence, obstructions, and fistula formation [3,4,5]. ADM shows better mechanical properties, which are useful in reducing hernia recurrence rates [10,11]. Studies have shown that ADM has a lower ability than small intestinal submucosa (SIS) to regenerate blood vessels [12,13]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
