From in vitro evaluation to human postmortem pre-validation of a radiopaque and resorbable internal biliary stent for liver transplantation applications

Abstract

The implantation of an internal biliary stent (IBS) during liver transplantation has recently been shown to reduce biliary complications. To avoid a potentially morbid ablation procedure, we developed a resorbable and radiopaque internal biliary stent (RIBS). We studied the mechanical and radiological properties of RIBS upon in vivo implantation in rats and we evaluated RIBS implantability in human anatomical specimens.For this purpose, a blend of PLA50-PEG-PLA50 triblock copolymer, used as a polymer matrix, and of X-ray-visible triiodobenzoate-poly(-caprolactone) copolymer (PCL-TIB), as a radiopaque additive, was used to design X-ray-visible RIBS. Samples were implanted in the peritoneal cavity of rats. The radiological, chemical, and biomechanical properties were evaluated during degradation. Further histological studies were carried out to evaluate the degradation and compatibility of the RIBS. A human cadaver implantability study was also performed.The in vivo results revealed a decline in the RIBS mechanical properties within 3 months, whereas clear and stable X-ray visualization of the RIBS was possible for up to 6 months. Histological analyses confirmed compatibility and resorption of the RIBS, with a limited inflammatory response. The RIBS could be successfully implanted in human anatomic specimens. The results reported in this study will allow the development of trackable and degradable IBS to reduce biliary complications after liver transplantation.

Case Report: Trans-Papillary Free Stenting of the Cystic Duct and of the Common Bile Duct in A Double Biliary Ducts Anastomoses of A Right Lobe Living Donor Transplantation

“…At this regard we should also take in consideration the possibility to use the new generation absorbable stent developed recently which can be placed through endoscopic or surgical approach (29)(30)(31).…”

Long-term in vivo performances of polylactide/iron oxide nanoparticles core–shell fibrous nanocomposites as MRI-visible magneto-scaffolds

“…Giant plurinucleated cells showed nuclei concentrated at the cell periphery, and a cytoplasm often filled with 1 to 3 optically white ovoid structures, corresponding to the fibrous materials (Figure 4B). 27 When present, a few eosinophils were associated with some mast cells.…”