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Surface modification of vitreoretinal surgical instruments with layer-by-layer films
Celimar Valentin-Rodriguez1, Tongalp H Tezel, Albena Ivanisevic
1Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907, USA.
Scanning
|June 2, 2011
Summary
Researchers modified surgical forceps with special films to help them grip the inner limiting membrane during eye surgery. These modified forceps showed stable coatings resistant to disinfectants and did not release nanoparticles, indicating potential for improved vitreoretinal procedures.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Ophthalmic Surgery
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Vitreoretinal surgery requires precise manipulation of delicate tissues.
- Current surgical instruments may lack specific adhesion capabilities for the inner limiting membrane.
- Developing novel tools can enhance surgical precision and outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To engineer vitreoretinal surgical forceps with enhanced adhesion properties.
- To create layer-by-layer (LbL) films capable of specifically adhering to the inner limiting membrane.
- To evaluate the stability and safety of these modified forceps.
Main Methods:
- Commercially available surgical forceps were modified using layer-by-layer (LbL) film deposition.
- Films composed of poly(allylamine hydrochloride), poly(styrene sulfonate), and gold nanoparticles were applied.
- Forceps underwent etching, polishing, silanization, and film deposition.
- Stability was tested using a commercial disinfectant (Cidex-OPA) and a physiological buffer.
- Surface topography was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
- Gold nanoparticle leaching was assessed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS).
Main Results:
- LbL films were successfully deposited onto surgical forceps of two different geometries.
- SEM analysis indicated that instrument geometry might influence film integrity.
- Modified forceps demonstrated film stability after exposure to disinfectant and buffer.
- ICP-MS confirmed no significant leaching of gold nanoparticles from the LbL film after 60 minutes in buffer.
Conclusions:
- Modified vitreoretinal forceps with LbL films show promise for enhanced tissue adhesion.
- The developed coatings are stable under simulated surgical conditions, including disinfectant exposure.
- The absence of nanoparticle leaching suggests a safe application for ophthalmic surgery.
- Further investigation into the effect of instrument geometry on film performance is warranted.
