TFE-plasma polymerized dermal sheep collagen for the repair of abdominal wall defects

The aim of this study was to design and evaluate a degradable biomaterial for the repair of abdominal wall defects. Hexamethylenediisocyanate-tanned dermal sheep collagen (HDSC) was plasma-polymerized with tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) which resulted in a hydrophobic surface on the visceral side (TFE-HDSC). Full-thickness abdominal wall defects were made in rats and repaired with HDSC or TFE-HDSC implants. Unmodified HDSC implants showed excellent fixation to the adjacent muscle tissue but intestinal adhesions were observed. These implants showed insufficient strength after four weeks, illustrated by bulging of the peritoneal contents (herniation). Plasma-polymerized implants after four weeks of implantation showed firm incorporation into the surrounding muscle tissue. With one exception there were no bowel adhesions. Fewer herniations were observed, indicating a prolonged degradation period. Further studies on the optimalization of degradation time are in progress.