In Vivo Biocompatibility and Biodegradability of Bilayer Films Based on Hyaluronic Acid and Chitosan for Ear, Nose and Throat Surgery

Abstract

Septal cartilage defects and tympanic membrane perforations are some of the main challenging clinical problems in modern ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) surgery. Polymer films based on biocompatible and biodegradable polymers seem to represent prospective materials for surgical reconstruction of such defects. In this study, we present the results of pilot in vivo experiments of the biocompatibility and biodegradability of bilayer films obtained via the casting method from hyaluronic acid (MW = 1300 kDa) and chitosan (500 and 900 kDa) polymer solutions. The total toxicity, pro-inflammatory activity, biodegradation rate and proliferative potential of the connective tissue of the dermis in the implantation area were evaluated on days 7, 14, 30 and 50 after the implantation. The studied samples demonstrated negligible overall acute and chronic toxicity. The influence of the preparation technique as well as the effect of chitosan’s MW on the biodegradation rate are also demonstrated. These bilayer polymer films can be recommended for ENT surgery, in particular for the reconstruction of the nasal septum and tympanic membrane.

Keywords

• bilayer polymer films
• chitosan
• hyaluronic acid
• nasal septal perforation
• tympanic membrane perforation