Biocompatibility Studies of a New Biosynthetic Dermal Substitute Based on Collagen/Hyaluronan Conjugate

The use of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) as the second macromolecular component with collagen for the membrane preparation is based on the idea to create a biodegradable scaffold for new tissue. A hybrid collagen/hyaluronan membrane with specific bubble macrostructure was designed to serve as a synthetic dermal substitute. The objectives were to explain the two questions: what is the local biological response to the implanted membrane, and what is its reconstruction rate in tissue. The histological study proved low irritability, good compatibility, ingrowth of autologous tissue starting on day 7 post implantation, and resorption within four weeks. The major part of the implant was replaced by autologous tissue at the end of three weeks post implantation. The overall local biological response to implant was very good.