Preliminary Study on the Development of a Biodegradable Functional Nasal Packing Material

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Medical Devices

Background:

• Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) requires nasal packing for hemostasis and healing.
• Current nasal packing materials present limitations, including patient discomfort and insufficient antimicrobial action.
• There is a need for advanced nasal packing with enhanced biocompatibility and antibacterial efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel biodegradable nasal packing material using polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and carbon dots (CDs).
• To evaluate the antibacterial activity of the developed material against common pathogens.
• To assess the in vivo biocompatibility and tissue response of the PVA-CDs composite.

Main Methods:

• Electrospun nanofiber membranes were fabricated from PVA and biomass-derived CDs.
• Antibacterial efficacy was tested against *Escherichia coli*, *Salmonella* spp., and *Staphylococcus aureus* using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method.
• In vivo biocompatibility was assessed through histological analysis of nasal tissue in mice.

Main Results:

• All tested materials exhibited antibacterial properties.
• The PVA-CS-CDs-2 mL variant demonstrated the most significant inhibition zones against bacteria.
• Histological analysis indicated minimal tissue damage and inflammation, with the PVA-CS-CDs-2 mL showing the best tissue integration.

Conclusions:

• The PVA-CS-CDs composite material shows significant potential as a biocompatible and antibacterial nasal packing.
• This novel material could offer an improved alternative to current nasal packing options in sinus surgery.
• Further clinical investigations are recommended to confirm the long-term efficacy and safety of this composite for patient use.