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Biocompatibility of six elastomers in vitro.
D Bakker1, C A Van Blitterswijk, W T Daems
1Ear Nose & Throat Department, University Hospital, Leiden, The Netherlands.
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research
|May 1, 1988
Summary
Polyurethanes and polyether polyester copolymer show better biocompatibility for potential alloplastic tympanic membranes compared to silicone rubbers and polypropylene oxide, based on in vitro studies.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Alloplastic tympanic membranes require biocompatible materials.
- Silicone rubbers and polypropylene oxide are potential candidates.
- Assessing novel biomaterials is crucial for otologic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro biocompatibility of various elastomers for potential use as alloplastic tympanic membranes.
- To compare the cellular response to silicone rubbers, polyurethanes, and polypropylene oxide.
Main Methods:
- In vitro assessment using rat middle ear mucosa explants and cultured epithelium.
- Quantitative analysis via epithelial growth curves.
- Morphological evaluation using scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and x-ray microanalysis.
- Simulated biomaterial aging to assess long-term effects.
Main Results:
- Dow Corning Elastomer and polypropylene oxide showed significantly reduced cell proliferation.
- Polypropylene oxide exhibited negative morphological findings.
- Polyurethanes and polyether polyester copolymer demonstrated superior biocompatibility in simulated aging.
- Silastic exposure led to silicon-containing inclusions in cells.
Conclusions:
- Polyurethanes and the polyether polyester copolymer exhibit better in vitro biocompatibility than silicone rubbers and polypropylene oxide for alloplastic tympanic membrane applications.
- Further research into these promising materials is warranted for otologic surgery.