Next-Generation HydroGel Films as Tissue Sealants and Adhesion Barriers

Abstract

Background: The development of conveniently sprayed, tissue‐adherent, inert hydrogel films has made possible the creation of novel products that can serve a dual function, as a surgical sealant to achieve immediate hemostasis, and as a barrier to prevent adhesion formation over time. Methods: A sprayable, in situ formed absorbable hydrogel film was evaluated as a tissue sealant in a heparinized canine carotid artery graft model. PTFE grafts with leaking end‐to‐side anastomoses were treated with the synthetic sealant, and hemostasis was evaluated upon restoration of blood flow. Also, the hydrogel films were evaluated as an adhesion barrier in a rabbit pericardial abrasion model. Results: The sprayable, in situ forming hydrogel film was shown to immediately seal carotid‐PTFE anastomoses in six of six applications. Hydrogel application in a rabbit pericardial abrasion model resulted in a statistically significant reduction in the number and tenacity of adhesions. Conclusions: This novel in situ formed sprayable hydrogel film has demonstrated a dual function as an effective tissue sealant and as an adhesion barrier in cardiovascular preclinical models. These next generation synthetic biomaterials are currently undergoing clinical investigations. (J Card Surg 2003;18:494‐499)