Design and development of a hybrid bioartificial shape memory polymeric material as integral component of a new means for the anastomosis of human hollow organs

Numerous types of pathologies require the resection of the bowel and an anastomoses to rejoin the two remaining stumps to regain lumen patency. A wide variety of suture materials (i.e. naturally absorbing or non absorbing like polymeric monofilament or braided materials) have been used to secure a hand-sewn anastomoses. Other anastomotic means include non absorbable (Murphy compression buttons) and absorbable (Valtrac) compression rings. Some of the most significant complications associated with intestinal anastomosis are: inflammation, dehiscence and leakage. The aim of this thesis is to study, design and develop a novel hybrid bioarfticial polymer to be used as fastener, able to guarantee the retention of the two hollow organ stumps, in a liquid tight anastomosis, in order to address at least some of the problem listed above. To reduce possible local inflammation, acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) and nanoparticles loaded with ASA were incorporate during the hydrogel preparation providing target drug delivery. The nanoparticles have been loaded with four different drug concentrations using the HPLC method, to compare their drug loading and drug release capabilities. Moreover, the mechanical properties of the bioartificial material have been tested by using a DMA 8000, validating that the storage modulus is a function of the number of freezing-thawing cycles. Biocompatibility test and cell culture experiments have been conducted to test the cytocompatibility and fibroblasts cell adhesion, growth and proliferation. Finally, a wireless sensor has been added to monitor tissue variations at the anastomotic site during the healing process. The sensors measure impedance and conductivity of tissue to quantify compressed tissue changes result of its transitions from healthy to necrosed tissue