The Evolution of Bioresorbable Sheets
Before the advent of bioresorbable materials, the closure of soft tissue was limited to permanent materials such as nylon sutures. Advances in material sciences led to the development of bioresorbable polymer sutures that met the clinical needs of holding soft tissues together, while serving the patient’s need of not remaining permanently in the body.
The evolution of bioresorbable polymer technology facilitated the development of large bioresorbable polymer sheets that could span large tissue masses and subsequently hold them in place. The thin sheets facilitate the healing of larger tissue masses and virtually eliminating many adverse effects of permanent implants.
Bioresorbable Material
Bioresorbable surgical thin sheets, for soft tissue applications, are made from polylactide (PLA): a copolymer of 70:30 Poly(L-lactide-co-D,L-lactide). Composed of lactic acid similar to that which occurs naturally in the human body, the copolymer maintains its strength during the healing process, and through hydrolysis slowly breaks down into lactic acid molecules. The molecules are ultimately metabolized into carbon dioxide and water and are released from the body through the lungs.
Bioresorbable Sheet Advantages
- Transparent, ultra thin profile to allow simplified intraoperative placement and repositioning without obscuring visualization of underlying tissues.
- Significant strength retention for up to 8 weeks to maintain support throughout critical healing period.
- Bioresorbable/biocompatible material provides safe resorption and metabolization with minimal risk of inflammatory reaction.
- No human or animal components, avoids the risk of disease transmission.