A new approach for the prevention of surgical adhesion: Nanofibrous surgical adhesion barriers

Abstract

Adhesions are the abnormal sticking of organs which are covered by serous membranes after injuries. Abdominal organs can stick together or to the peritoneal cavity due to abdominal operations, peritonitis, endometriosis, radiation and cancer. Adhesions can also cause intestinal obstruction, chronic abdominal pain and infertility. Occurrence of adhesion and treatment of its complications are causing economic loss and loss of serious work power. Attempts to decrease or prevent the peritoneal adhesions are studied and curing materials make a million dollar market. Nanofibrous mats, thanks to their large specific surface area and nano porous structure; have oxygen and air permeability, but exhibit barrier properties against bacteria. For this reason, they are especially preferred in the biomedical field in recent years. In this study, the importance of adhesion in surgical applications was put forward and the usage potential of nanofiber surfaces as adhesion barriers were discussed.