PROTECTION OF THE OESOPHAGEAL MUCOSA WITH CHITOSAN GELS

In developed countries, gastro-oesophageal reflux is one of the most frequently diagnosed diseases. Although acid reflux is more well known, alkaline reflux is equally troublesome. In either of the two cases, the oesophageal mucosa is destroyed. The aim of this study was to analyse the possibility of eliminating the problem by using hydrogels containing dextran and chitosan to prevent irritation of the oesophageal mucosa. The addition of chitosan to all tested gels increased their dynamic viscosity, enabling better adhesion and, consequently, better protection of the mucous membrane. The addition of dextran reduced the pH of the tested gels, which allowed for the neutralisation of alkaline reflux. Based on the texture tests, chitosan and dextran increased work of adhesion.