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Hydrolytic degradation and morphologic study of poly-p-dioxanone
1Department of Textiles and Apparel, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853-4401.
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research
|February 1, 1993
Summary
Polydioxanone (PDS) sutures degrade via hydrolysis, losing mass and strength over 120 days. This study reveals the two-stage degradation mechanism impacting PDS suture morphology and properties.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Surgical Sutures
Background:
- Polydioxanone (PDS) sutures are widely used in surgery due to their extended absorption profile.
- Understanding the in vitro degradation mechanism is crucial for predicting in vivo performance and material behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the hydrolytic degradation mechanism of 2-0 size PDS monofilament suture.
- To investigate the morphologic changes and property alterations during degradation.
Main Methods:
- Immersion of PDS sutures in phosphate buffer (pH 7.44) at 37°C for up to 120 days.
- Analysis of tensile properties, weight, thermal characteristics, X-ray diffraction, surface morphology, and dye diffusion.
- Evaluation of degradation kinetics and structural changes.
Main Results:
- Hydrolysis significantly altered PDS fiber morphology and properties, with mass and tensile strength loss.
- Molecular orientation remained largely unaffected until late stages; a 120-day absorption delay was observed.
- Degradation occurred in two stages: amorphous region scission followed by crystalline region scission.
- Dye diffusion indicated easier longitudinal than lateral transport, supporting a 'Swiss-cheese' model.
Conclusions:
- PDS suture hydrolysis involves distinct amorphous and crystalline phase degradation mechanisms.
- The 'Swiss-cheese' model effectively describes dye diffusion, influenced by hydrolysis time and temperature.
- These findings provide insights into PDS suture degradation kinetics and structural integrity over time.