Scientists from Tomsk Polytechnic University (TPU), together with partners, have presented a new technology using non-woven polymer scaffolds to prevent the formation of intra-abdominal adhesions after surgery. Studies have shown that the materials have an anti-adhesive effect and do not contain toxic substances.
Scaffolds — are composite materials that promote tissue regeneration and accelerate healing by creating optimal conditions for the growth of new cells. The uniqueness of the development lies in the fact that the scaffolds have acquired anti-adhesion properties and do not adhere to biodegradable material. They can be used as barrier membranes to protect against adhesions in the abdominal cavity.
During the experiments, scientists applied coatings of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) to the scaffolds and investigated their properties. The best mechanical characteristics were recorded in samples with a 9% PVA solution. There, the tensile strength increased almost 1.5 times.
The highest mechanical properties were obtained in scaffolds with a coating thickness of about 8 micrometers, which significantly exceeds the indicators of unmodified samples.
Cytotoxicity of the extracts of the samples was not detected, and the anti-adhesive properties increased with increasing thickness of the PVA layer. Samples with the thickest coating showed the best results, which opens up new opportunities for creating biocompatible membranes.
Scientists continue clinical trials to ensure the safety of new materials and their introduction into medical practice. The work was carried out within the framework of the "Science" project and published in the Journal of Functional Biomaterials.
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