Comparative Physicochemical Analysis among 1,4-Butanediol Diglycidyl Ether Cross-Linked Hyaluronic Acid Dermal Fillers

Abstract

(1) Background: Injectable hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers are used in several chirurgical practices and in aesthetic medicine. HA filler stability can be enhanced through different cross-linking technologies; one of the most frequently cross-linker used is 1,4-butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE), also present in the HA-BDDE dermal filler family of the company Matex Lab S.p.A. (Brindisi, Italy). Our overview is focused on their characterization, drawing a correlation between matrix structure, rheological and physicochemical properties related to their cross-linking technologies. (2) Methods: Four different injectable HA hydrogels were characterized through optical microscopic examination and rheological behavior investigation. (3) Results: The cross-linked HA dermal fillers showed a fibrous “spiderweb-like” matrix structure and an elastic and solid-like profile. (4) Conclusions: The comparative analysis represents a preliminary characterization of these injectable medical devices in order to identify their best field of application.

Evaluation of the histopathological effects of injectable hyaluronic acid as a filler material in rat’s lip

“…Compared to its surgical alternatives, using HA ller materials is considered a safe, non-invasive procedure to successfully restore facial contour defects. HA is characterized by its great capacity to bind to water and simplicity of implantation [10].…”

Hyaluronic Acid as Bioink and Hydrogel Scaffolds for Tissue Engineering Applications

“…In HA, the lengths of glucuronic acid and N -acetyl-glucosamine chains were used to distinguish between high-molecular-weight and low-molecular-weight variants . HA exists in the ECM with a molecular weight ranging between 10 8 and 10 10 Da . The secretion and degradation of HA polymer in tissue ECM play important roles in regulating the functions of cells or tissues.…”

Optimizing Hyaluronic Acid: A Comprehensive Review of Rheological Insights for Clinical Practice

“…Liquids with high viscosity are thick and flow slowly, while those with low viscosity are thin and flow more easily. Viscosity is influenced by factors such as temperature and the internal friction of the fluid's molecules [12].…”

“…It is crucial that hydrogels have low viscosity at high shear (100 s-1), so that they can be extruded through a small-caliber needle. High viscosity under low shear is in fact comparable to the condition of the hydrogel after injection or when resting in the package [12]. If the viscosity is too high, the injection of the fillers becomes difficult to apply.…”

“…The study of a new formulation requires multiple steps to demonstrate safety, efficacy, and stability to ensure consumer protection and satisfaction. During formulation of fillers, use and storage time, exposure to possible external factors such as physical damage, microbiological and chemical influences can lead to instability to varying degrees [12]. For example, a thermal stress can change the product viscosity and the loss of storage modulus (Figure 3.…”