Engineering Shape to Overcome Contraction: The Role of Polymer-Collagen Hybrids in Advanced Dermal Substitutes.

Collagen gels are the standard dermal equivalents par excellence, however the problem of rapid cell-mediated contraction remains unresolved. Therefore, the development of hybrid constructs (HCs) based on collagen and polymeric scaffolds is proposed to address the mechanical instability that usually limits the formation of new, functional tissue. Equally important, these synthetic structures should be temporary (degradable) while ensuring that cells are well-adapted to the new extracellular environment.

Synthesis of PLA-poly(ether urethane)-PLA copolymers and design of biodegradable anti-adhesive membranes for orthopaedic applications.

Peritendinous adhesions cause chronic pain and disability. Leading causes are trauma to tendons and surrounding tissues and immobilization after surgery. Adhesions occur between 24 hours to 6 weeks after surgery.