Biodegradable shape memory polymer foams with appropriate thermal properties for hemostatic applications

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Wound Healing Technologies

Background:

• Shape memory polymer (SMP) foams show potential for hemostatic dressings due to biocompatibility and clotting ability.
• Biodegradable SMP foams could enhance wound healing by avoiding secondary removal procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop hydrolytically and oxidatively biodegradable SMP foams for hemostatic applications.
• To evaluate the thermal properties, shape recovery, mechanical strength, and degradation rates of these novel foams.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized biodegradable SMP foams by reacting polyols (triethanolamine, glycerol) with amino acids (6-aminocaproic acid, glycine) to incorporate ester bonds.
• Characterized foam structures, thermal properties, shape recovery, mechanical strength, and biodegradation rates (hydrolytic and oxidative).

Main Results:

• Ester-containing SMP foams exhibited clinically relevant thermal properties and rapid shape recovery (within 8 min).
• Triethanolamine-based foams displayed interconnected porous structures and enhanced mechanical strength.
• Biodegradable SMP foams demonstrated faster hydrolytic and oxidative degradation rates compared to controls.

Conclusions:

• Developed biodegradable SMP foams possess clinically applicable thermal properties and excellent shape recovery.
• These foams show significant potential as effective hemostatic devices for clinical and battlefield use.
• The biodegradability feature eliminates the need for secondary removal, facilitating patient recovery.