Functional Compression Fabrics with Dual Scar-Suppressing and Antimicrobial Properties: Microencapsulation Design and...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Textile Engineering
• Dermatology

Background:

• Traditional pressure therapy for scar hyperplasia uses silicone and compression garments (CGs).
• Limitations include bacterial infection, hygiene issues, and reduced lifespan of CGs due to complex silicone application.
• There is a need for advanced CGs with integrated scar treatment and antimicrobial functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel compression garment fabric (CGF) with integrated scar hyperplasia inhibition and antibacterial properties.
• To overcome the limitations associated with conventional silicone-based pressure therapy for hypertrophic scars.
• To enhance patient compliance and quality of life through improved scar treatment materials.

Main Methods:

• Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-loaded microcapsules (PDMS-M) were synthesized using chitosan quaternary ammonium salt (HACC) and sodium alginate (SA).
• PDMS-M were applied to CGF, followed by modification with (3-aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES) and further treatment with HACC.
• Characterization included X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); antibacterial activity and wash durability were assessed.

Main Results:

• The modified CGF demonstrated significant antibacterial rates: 94.2% against Escherichia coli (E. coli) and 83.1% against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus).
• The PDMS-M-HACC CGF achieved a 99.9% antibacterial rate against both bacteria, with excellent wash durability (Grade AA for E. coli, Grade A for S. aureus).
• The finished CGF maintained good biocompatibility and moisture permeability, with minor reductions in elastic recovery, air permeability, and softness.

Conclusions:

• The developed PDMS-M-HACC CGF effectively integrates scar hyperplasia inhibition and potent antibacterial functions.
• This novel fabric offers a promising alternative to conventional methods, potentially improving hypertrophic scar treatment outcomes.
• The enhanced CGF is expected to improve patient quality of life by providing a more convenient and effective scar management solution.