Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 26, 2026
14:49
Direct and Indirect Culture Methods for Studying Biodegradable Implant Materials In Vitro
Published on: April 15, 2022
5.8K
EFFECTS OF ETHYLENE OXIDE RESTERILISATION AND IN-VITRO DEGRADATION ON MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF PARTIALLY ABSORBABLE
T Endogan1, I Ozyaylali, H Kulacoglu
1Middle East Technical University, Graduate Department of Polymer Science and Technology, Ankara, Turkey.
East African Medical Journal
|February 10, 2016
Summary
Resterilizing composite hernia meshes with ethylene oxide gas does not significantly alter their mechanical properties or physical structure. This finding supports the safety of resterilizing these materials for surgical use.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Surgical Innovation
- Materials Engineering
Background:
- Abdominal wall hernia repair commonly utilizes polypropylene mesh due to its efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
- Composite meshes offer potential advantages but are more expensive, prompting investigation into cost-saving measures like resterilization.
- Previous studies confirmed the safety of resterilizing pure polypropylene meshes, but data on composite meshes was lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of resterilization and in vitro degradation on the physical and mechanical properties of partially absorbable composite meshes.
- To determine the safety and feasibility of resterilizing composite meshes for potential reuse in hernia repair.
Main Methods:
- Two composite meshes (Ultrapro and Vypro II) were subjected to ethylene oxide gas resterilization.
- Specimens underwent in vitro degradation in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for 8 weeks.
- Mechanical properties were assessed via tensiometric measurements, and physical structures were examined using scanning electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- In vitro degradation significantly reduced mechanical properties in both mesh types, with Ultrapro showing a higher reduction due to its absorbable components.
- Ethylene oxide resterilization did not significantly impact degradation characteristics or alter the physical structures of the meshes.
- Resterilized Ultrapro meshes demonstrated stronger mechanical characteristics post-degradation compared to non-resterilized controls.
Conclusions:
- Resterilization of partially absorbable composite meshes using ethylene oxide gas is safe and does not compromise their mechanical integrity.
- No significant changes in surface morphology were observed after resterilization, further supporting its safety.
- These findings suggest that resterilization can be a viable option for managing composite mesh materials in surgical settings.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
01:30Methods of Sterilization II: Chemical Methods
10.6K
In healthcare, the chemical method of sterilization uses chemical sterilants to treat surgical instruments and medical supplies to help prevent the transmission of infectious pathogens to patients. Due to heat sensitivity, most medical supplies and equipment should not be exposed to high temperatures. These parts include rubber, plastic, glass, and other similar elements.
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
10.6K
01:28Microbial Bioremediation of Plastics
30
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a synthetic polymer widely utilized in the packaging industry, particularly for bottles and containers. Due to its chemical stability and durability, PET accumulates in the environment, contributing significantly to plastic pollution. It comprises repeating units of terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol, resulting in a semi-crystalline structure that is resistant to natural degradation processes.A notable breakthrough in plastic biodegradation came with the...
30