Fetal membrane patch and biomimetic adhesive coacervates as a sealant for fetoscopic defects

Iatrogenic preterm premature rupture of membranes after fetoscopic procedures affects 10–47% of patients, secondary to the non-healing nature of membranes and the separation of layers during the entry. In this study we developed an in vitro model to mimic the uterine wall–fetal membrane interface using a water column with one end sealed with human fetal membranes and poultry breast, and a defect was created with an 11 French trocar. Further, a fetal membrane patch in conjunction with multiphase adhesive coacervates modeled after the sandcastle worm bioadhesive was tested for sealing of an iatrogenic defect. The sealant withstood an additional traction of 12 g for 30–60 min and turbulence of the water column without leakage of fluid or slippage. The adhesive is non-toxic when in direct contact with human fetal membranes in an organ culture setting. A fetal membrane patch with multiphase adhesive complex coacervates may help to seal the defect and prevent iatrogenic preterm premature rupture of the membranes.

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