Abstract
In order to overcome the problem of rapid clearance of the polysaccharide hyaluronic acid (Hyal) in the treatment of osteoarthritis (OA), a 50% cross-linked Hyal hydrogel (Hyal 50%) was synthesised. The 50% refers to the amount of COOH groups of the polysaccharide involved in the cross-linking reaction, i.e. 50% of the total amount. The rheological behaviour of the Hyal 50% hydrogel, and in particular the possibility to inject it through a needle, was studied. The results obtained demonstrated that the hydrogel injected through the needle still behaved like a gel, although it showed a reduction of the dynamic moduli. The most appropriate sterilisation technique for this kind of hydrogel was also evaluated. Liophilised Hyal 50% samples were sterilised by steam, Ethylene Oxide (EtO) and γ-rays. EtO and γ-rays did not modify the characteristics of the hydrogel in terms of swellability and morphology. Lastly, the in vivo effect of Hyal 50% hydrogel in the treatment of chondral defect in rabbit knee was also studied. The results obtained showed the Hyal 50% injections improved chondrocytes density and matrix appearance. Furthermore, the permanence in situ of the hydrogel was longer than that of the linear Hyal.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 4503-4513 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Biomaterials |
Volume | 23 |
Issue number | 23 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Dec 2002 |
Keywords
- Hyaluronan hydrogel
- In vivo tests
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheological properties
- Sterilisation
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Biotechnology
- Bioengineering
- Biomedical Engineering