A new type of resorbable
biomaterial intended for pelvic reconstruction was tested with
respect to tissue regeneration and biocompatibility in rats. The
biomaterial consisted of methoxypolyethyleneglycol-poly
(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (MPEG-PLGA). Implants were pure,
enriched with extra-cellular matrix (ECM) or estrogen.
Methods Ten implants of each type were tested for 3 and
8 weeks, respectively. Histological assessment of connective
tissue organization, inflammation, vascularization, and
thickness of regenerated tissue was undertaken.
Results All implants had a high degree of biocompatibility.
ECM-enriched implants had significantly higher inflammatory
scores compared to pure implants at 3 weeks. At
8 weeks, neither of the parameters differed significantly. No
trace of the implants remained.
Conclusions The MPEG-PLGA is highly biocompatible,
degrades quickly, and seems inert in the process of tissue
regeneration. Thus, it is hardly a candidate per se in
reinforcement of pelvic reconstruction, but it could have a
future role as carrier for stem cells.