Nanofiber Hydrogel Drug Delivery System for Prevention of Postsurgical Intestinal Adhesion

Bei Zhao1, Panyong Zhu1, Hongyu Zhang1

  • 1Zhoukou Central Hospital, Zhoukou 466001, China.

Insights

A novel dual-drug patch effectively prevents postsurgical intestinal adhesion (PIA) by combining anti-inflammatory and pro-repair drugs. This innovation offers a promising solution for reducing complications after abdominal surgery.

Area of Science:

  • Biomaterials Science
  • Regenerative Medicine
  • Surgical Innovation

Background:

  • Postsurgical intestinal adhesion (PIA) is a frequent complication of abdominal surgery, leading to significant health issues like obstruction and infertility.
  • Current prevention methods using hydrogels or nanofibrous films have limitations.
  • Developing advanced barrier materials is crucial for mitigating PIA.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a novel dual-structure drug delivery patch for preventing postsurgical intestinal adhesion.
  • To investigate the efficacy of a combined anti-inflammatory and pro-repair drug delivery system.

Main Methods:

  • A dual-structure patch (NHP) was created using poly lactic-co-glycolic acid (PLGA) nanofibers and a chitosan hydrogel.
  • PLGA nanofibers were loaded with deferoxamine mesylate (DFO) for sustained release.
  • The chitosan hydrogel was loaded with dexamethasone (DXMS) for rapid release.

Main Results:

  • The hydrogel component rapidly released DXMS, providing acute anti-inflammatory effects.
  • The PLGA nanofibers sustained DFO release, promoting peritoneal repair via angiogenesis.
  • In vivo studies demonstrated that NHP effectively prevented PIA by reducing inflammation and vascularization.

Conclusions:

  • The NHP patch successfully inhibits postsurgical intestinal adhesion.
  • This dual-drug delivery system shows significant potential for clinical application in preventing PIA.
  • NHP offers a promising strategy for improving surgical outcomes and patient recovery.