In vivo evaluation of a biodegradable intraanastomotic membrane in a porcine model
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Contributors
Abstract
Background: Anastomotic leakage (AL) represents one of the most serious complications in gastrointestinal surgery, with reported incidence rates of up to 26%. Despite advancements in surgical techniques, early detection of AL remains challenging, and no reliable real-time monitoring system is currently available. In this study, we investigated a resorbable polydioxanone (PDO) membrane as a potential substrate for future sensor integration, aiming to facilitate real-time monitoring of anastomotic healing. Methods: In eight German Landrace pigs, 34 ileal side-to-end stapler anastomoses were examined: GM1 (n = 7), GM2 (n = 10), and controls (n = 17). Membrane stability was monitored after implantation, while adhesion formation, burst pressure, and histology were assessed on postoperative day 7. Results: Both membrane geometries showed robust stability, with good anchorage of the large spokes within the anastomosis. Geometry 1 (GM1) exhibited higher burst pressure than Geometry 2 (GM2) (193 ± 43.6 vs. 155 ± 65.5 mmHg, p = 0.02). Compared with controls (167 ± 42.3 mmHg), neither GM1 (p = 0.053) nor GM2 (p = 0.379) differed significantly. Adhesions occurred in all groups, without significant differences. Histological evaluations showed typical granulation tissue and fibrosis, with granulocytic inflammation more common in GM1 without affecting anastomotic stability. Conclusion: This proof-of-concept study demonstrates that the PDO membrane can be safely incorporated into stapled anastomoses without compromising anastomotic healing. The membrane provides a stable, biocompatible platform suitable for future sensor integration, supporting the development of a diagnostic intraanastomotic device.
Details
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Article number | 1746520 |
| Journal | Frontiers in Surgery |
| Volume | 13 |
| Publication status | Published - 9 Feb 2026 |
| Peer-reviewed | Yes |
Keywords
ASJC Scopus subject areas
Keywords
- anastomotic healing, anastomotic leak, biodegradable, in vivo, PDO membrane, porcine model, small intestine