A novel injectable tissue adhesive based on oxidized dextran and chitosan

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Existing surgical adhesives often have limitations, including toxicity, poor biocompatibility, and complex application procedures.
• There is a need for advanced hemostatic and tissue-bonding biomaterials that are safe, effective, and surgeon-friendly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, in situ setting surgical adhesive based on natural polysaccharides.
• To evaluate the adhesive's tissue bonding strength, hemostatic efficacy, biocompatibility, and biodegradability.
• To explore its potential as a drug delivery vehicle.

Main Methods:

• Oxidation of dextran with periodate to introduce aldehyde groups.
• Reaction of oxidized dextran with chitosan hydrochloride to form a two-component hydrogel.
• Assessment of gelation time, rheological properties, adhesive strength, and burst strength.
• Evaluation of biocompatibility, cytotoxicity, and hemostatic efficacy in a rabbit liver injury model.
• Histological analysis and comparison with commercial benchmarks (Fibrin glue, BioGlue®).

Main Results:

• Instantaneous gelation upon mixing the two components, forming a stable hydrogel.
• Adhesive strength of 200-400 gf/cm², approximately 4-5 times greater than fibrin glue.
• High burst strength (400-410 mm Hg), indicating suitability for sealing high-pressure bleeding.
• Demonstrated hemostatic efficacy in a rabbit liver model with favorable histological outcomes.
• Negligible cytotoxicity, minimal swelling, and comparable histological features to BioGlue® after two weeks.
• Successful application as a drug delivery vehicle was also demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• The developed chitosan-dextran based surgical adhesive exhibits excellent tissue bonding, hemostatic capabilities, and biocompatibility.
• Its simple two-component application and rapid in situ gelation address key surgeon needs for complex procedures.
• This biodegradable biomaterial presents a promising alternative to existing surgical adhesives and shows potential for drug delivery applications.