The Effect of Polylactide Resorbable Film on the Epidural Fibrosis After Lumbar Laminotomy

Wie, Dae Gon; Park, Sang Won; Lee, Soon Hyuck; Lee, Seoung Joon; Kim, Sang Bum; Chung, Jong Won

Abstract

PURPOSE
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effect of polylactide resorbable film in preventing epidural fibrosis after lumbar laminotomy.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Thirty-six New Zealand male rabbits about fifteen month old, weighing 3.5 kg in average, were used. Uniform laminotomy windows measuring 7x7 mm were made on the left side of the spine at three lumber locations (L2, L3 and L4). The laminotomy window at second lumbar spine was left untreated and used as control group (Group 1). The lanimotomy window of 3rd lumbar spine was covered with free fat tissue (Group 2), and polylactide ( Surgi-Wrap(R)) resorbable film was inserted on the laminotomy window of 4th lumbar spine (Group 3). Twelve rabbits were euthanized at 4, 8 and 12 weeks each after operation for biochemical analysis of hydroxyproline content and histologic examination.
RESULTS
1. There was considerable reduction in the total collagen, ranging from 40~48% in the Group 2 or the Group 3 compared to the Group 1. There was no statistical difference between the Group 2 and the Group 3. 2. The extent of fibrosis and fibroblast density was significantly lower in the Group 2 or the Group 3 than in the Group 1. However, the extent of fibrosis and fibroblast density did not differ statistically between the Group 2 and the Group 3. 3. No significant statistical differences of the collagen content and the histologic findings in each group was demonstrated during experimental period.
CONCLUSION
These results suggest that polylactide (Surgi-Wrap(R)) resorbable film may be a useful method for reduction of epidural fibrosis after lumbar laminotomy.