Photocrosslinkable tissue adhesive based on dextran

A biodegradable tissue adhesive was prepared from dextran urethane (Dex-U), which could be photocrosslinked under the UV irradiation, and steadily adhere to surface of gelatin and mouse skin, which simulate the human tissue. The structures of above Dex-U were characterized by FTIR, H-1 NMR spectroscopy and XRD. The adhesion properties of result products was evaluated by lap-shear test and burst pressure test. The highest adhesion strength and burst pressure could reach to 2.99 MPa and 35 mmHg, respectively. The photopolymerization process of Dex-U was monitored by real time infrared spectroscopy (RTIR), and the surface tension of Dex-U solution was tested by du Nouy Ring method. The cytotoxicity of Dex-U also was evaluated. The relationship between all above properties and degree of substitution of Dex-U was assessed. The adhesive strength of Dex-U is significantly higher than that of fibrin glue. The obtained products present the potential to serve as tissue adhesive in medical area in the future. Crown Copyright (C) 2011 Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.