Topological Structure Design and Fabrication of Biocompatible PLA/TPU/ADM Mesh with Appropriate Elasticity for Hernia Repair

Abstract

The meshes for hernia repair result in many problems that are related to complications including chronic pain and limited movement due to inadequate mechanical strength, non‐absorbability, or low elasticity. In this study, degradable polylactic acid (PLA), synthetic thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), and acellular dermal matrix (ADM) powders are combined to prepare a novel PLA/TPU/ADM mesh with three different topological structures (square, circular, and diamond) by 3D printing. The physicochemical properties and structural characteristics of mesh are studied, the results show that the diamond structure mesh with the pore size of 3 mm has sufficient elasticity and tensile strength, which provides the efficient mechanical strength required for hernia repair (16 N cm−1) and the value more than polypropylene(PP) mesh. Besides, in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrate human umbilical vein endothelial cells could successfully proliferate on the PLA/TPU/ADM mesh whose biocompatibility with the host is shown using a rat model of abdominal wall defect. In conclusion, the results of this study demonstrate that the PLA/TPU/ADM mesh may be considered a good choice for hernia repair as its potential to overcome the elastic and strength challenges associated with a highly flexible abdominal wall, as well as its good biocompatibility.

The Influence of 3D Printing Parameters on Adhesion between Polylactic Acid (PLA) and Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)

“…Hu et al [ 26 ] investigated polymer mixtures applied to form hernia meshes. This indicates a growing interest in the possibilities of combining polymers in additive production.…”

A Review of Advanced Abdominal Wall Hernia Patch Materials

“…[166] Additionally, braiding is not ideal for drug-loaded patches typically used to prevent and treat post-operative inflammation. [80] Despite its obvious limitations, this remains the simplest and most convenient method for controlling mesh size and weight. Thus, the incorporation of biodegradable polymers into the woven/knitted manufacturing process emerges as a crucial prerequisite for the prospective development of advanced AWHPMs.…”

“…[21] This workflow can be used to design a customized 3D AWHPMs that matches the injured or damaged area of the patient, restoring the biocharacteristics and biomechanical function of the AW after implantation. For instance, Zhang et al [80] printed a novel PLA/TPU/ADM mesh with three dissimilar topological structures namely, square, circular, and diamond-shaped micropores (Figure 5B(ii)). Mechanical testing determined that diamond-shaped pores were the most effective and deemed essential for the customization of AWHPMs.…”

“…[4] Nonetheless, for novel AWHPMs like gels, membranes, and scaffolds, pore size does not seem to have a statistically significant effect on their performance. [75,80,160,215] It should be noted that the pore size of the AWHPMs must exceed 75 μm to permit macrophage passage. [52] Additionally, meshes with nanofiber structures possess unique characteristics that cause the patch to exhibit nonlinear mechanical behavior and large deformations.…”

Multifunctional Fluorinated Lubricant‐Infused Poly(4‐Hydroxybutyrate) (P4HB) Membranes for Full‐Thickness Abdominal Wall Defect Repair

“…Hence, an ideal patch should have low adhesion formation and be biodegradable. Until now, many biodegradable polymers, such as polylactic acid (PLA), [7,8] polycaprolactones (PCL), [9][10][11] polyglycolic acids (PGA), [12] and poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), [13] have been intensively investigated as patches for hernia reparation. Nevertheless, the above biodegradable polyesters come with serious limitations, such as acidic byproducts.…”