Novel biodegradable powder for preventing postoperative pleural adhesion

ObjectivesProgress in medical technology and improvements in prognosis have led to an increase in polysurgery. However, postoperative pleural adhesion leads to poor visualization, bleeding, and lung and vascular trauma during subsequent surgeries. To date, there have been no appropriate anti-adhesive agents to prevent pleural adhesion. The aim of this study was to investigate the anti-adhesive effects of commercially available anti-adhesive agents and a newly developed powder-type anti-adhesive agent.MethodsIn 48 male rats, we performed thoracotomy at the fifth intercostal space. We randomized animals into four groups: normal saline, Seprafilm, Interceed, and aldehyde dextran and ε-poly(L-lysine) powder (D-L powder). W killed animals on Day 7 or 28 to evaluate the severity, length, gross appearance, and pathological appearance of adhesion formation.ResultsAdhesion length in the D-L powder group was significantly shorter than in the control group (P < 0.05) on both Days 7 and 28. Pathologically, all anti-adhesive materials remained on the lung surface on Day 7. On Day 28, only Interceed remained on the lung surface, in which small vessels were present. We also demonstrated the usage of D-L powder during video-assisted thoracic surgery in pigs, and found it easy to administer via the trocar sleeve.ConclusionsWe found D-L powder to be effective for preventing postoperative pleural adhesion, although Seprafilm and Interceed are also somewhat effective. However, D-L powder is easier to administer during video-assisted thoracic surgery.