Brian S Sorg1, Ashley J Welch. 1. Biomedical Engineering Program, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas 78712, USA. brian.sorg@duke.edu
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate, in vivo, acute strength reinforcement benefits of polymer film patches. STUDY DESIGN/ MATERIALS AND METHODS: Full thickness incisions created in a dorsal skin flap of Sprague-Dawley rats were closed by laser-tissue welding: albumin solder was topically applied to the incision on the dermal surface, and a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymer film placed on the solder as a patch (controls had no film). Breaking strength was tested acutely (15-20 minutes after sacrifice). RESULTS: The patched incisions were statistically stronger than the controls (ANOVA, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Polymer film patches may be a viable method to increase acute breaking strengths of welds using topically applied solder. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: To demonstrate, in vivo, acute strength reinforcement benefits of polymer film patches. STUDY DESIGN/ MATERIALS AND METHODS: Full thickness incisions created in a dorsal skin flap of Sprague-Dawley rats were closed by laser-tissue welding: albumin solder was topically applied to the incision on the dermal surface, and a poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) polymer film placed on the solder as a patch (controls had no film). Breaking strength was tested acutely (15-20 minutes after sacrifice). RESULTS: The patched incisions were statistically stronger than the controls (ANOVA, P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS:Polymer film patches may be a viable method to increase acute breaking strengths of welds using topically applied solder. Copyright 2002 Wiley-Liss, Inc.