The effect of Interceed for reducing adhesion as a middle ear packing agent: an experimental study

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Otolaryngology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Postoperative adhesions are a common complication in abdominal surgery.
• Interceed (oxidized regenerated cellulose) is utilized to mitigate adhesion formation.
• Its application in middle ear surgery remains under-investigated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Interceed as a middle ear packing agent.
• To compare Interceed with Gelfoam (gelatin sponge) in a guinea pig model.
• To assess potential ototoxicity and biocompatibility within the middle ear cavity.

Main Methods:

• Guinea pigs underwent middle ear mucosa abrasion and subsequent packing with either Interceed or Gelfoam.
• Auditory brainstem responses (ABRs) were measured preoperatively and at 3 weeks post-operation.
• Histopathological analysis was conducted 3 weeks after surgery to assess tissue response.

Main Results:

• No statistically significant differences in ABRs were observed between the Interceed and Gelfoam groups.
• Reduced fibrosis, mucosal thickening, and adhesion formation were noted in the Interceed group.
• No foreign body reaction was observed with Interceed, indicating good biocompatibility.

Conclusions:

• Interceed demonstrated non-ototoxicity and biocompatibility in the guinea pig middle ear.
• These findings support the potential use of Interceed as a safe middle ear packing agent in otosurgery.