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Evaluation of biomechanical properties of Expanded‐Polytetrafluoroethylene™ Soft Tissue Patch after dorsal implantation in the rat to mimic TMJ lateral reconstruction
Author(s) -
LAI W.F. T.,
STOCKSTILL J. W.,
DENG W.P.,
BOWLEY J.,
BURCH J. G.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
journal of oral rehabilitation
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.991
H-Index - 93
eISSN - 1365-2842
pISSN - 0305-182X
DOI - 10.1111/j.1365-2842.2001.tb01697.x
Subject(s) - ultimate tensile strength , soft tissue , polytetrafluoroethylene , materials science , temporomandibular joint , ligament , biomedical engineering , periodontal fiber , biomechanics , anatomy , medicine , dentistry , surgery , composite material
SUMMARY Clinically, Gore‐Tex Expanded‐Polytetrafluoroethylene™ (E‐PTFE™) has been used to reconstruct the lateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) ligament. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in the biomechanical properties of implanted E‐PTFE™ over time with respect to tissue infiltration. Ninety‐six specimens of implants were divided into four groups. Group A was the experimental group. Thirty‐six autoclave‐sterilized specimens were subcutaneously implanted into the backs of 36 rats. The rats were randomly sacrificed at 2 ( n = 12), 7 ( n = 12) and 12 ( n = 12) weeks. The implants were tested for mechanical properties including maximal stress, strain and Young's modulus of elasticity ( E ) using the servo‐hydraulic material testing system (MTS). Group B was the in vitro control group. Thirty‐six specimens were placed in tissue culture media at 37 °C for a time period equivalent to the experimental group to simulate the effect of a moist, warm environment on biomechanical properties. Group C was the temperature and pressure control group. Twelve specimens were autoclave‐sterilized to determine the changes of tensile strength under high temperature and pressure. Control group D (no treatment) was tested to determine the initial tensile strength. The results showed significantly larger maximal stress as well as an increase in E and smaller maximal strain in experimental group A than in control groups B, C and D. There was no significant difference among control groups B, C and D. Histological examination of implants at 12 weeks demonstrated that 0·2–0·3 mm of 1‐mm thick implants were occupied by connective tissue from each side. It may be concluded that E‐PTFE™ implants become stronger and less flexible after implantation in vivo .