Comparison of pathomorphologic properties of non-resorbable and partially resorbable implants for reconstructive surgery of pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence: an animal model study

Introduction . It is well-known that the use of transvaginal mesh implants is not devoid of specific complications that meaningfully impair the quality of life of female patients. The volume of permanent material used has been shown to correlate closely with the risk of implant-associated complications. Thus, there is a need to develop a new generation of implants that retain the advantages of a permanent mesh implant but with minimal risk of implant-associated complications. Meanwhile, there are insufficient data on the organism's response to this type of synthetic implant. Objective . To compare the histological changes in the soft tissues of the rabbit anterior abdominal wall in the implantation zone of the new generation partially resorbable implant and non-absorbable polypropylene mesh implant on the animal model. Materials & methods . We have previously developed a partially resorbable ligature delivery system for axial fixation of pelvic floor structures, performed technical analysis, and compared biomechanical and pathomorphological properties after implantation in an animal model experiment. The present study was conducted on 39 male rabbits of Chinchilla breed, randomised into three groups according to the type of implanted material: a partially resorbable ligature delivery system Axilen and Axilen Rapid [Lintex, LLC], and a non-resorbable polypropylene mesh implant Urosling. After the rabbits were removed from the experiment, the obtained biomaterial was subjected to histological study. Results . In the group with partially resorbable implants Axilen and Axilen Rapid, less inflammation and better tissue integration were observed compared to the polypropylene implant Urosling. This indicates a potential reduction in the risk of postoperative complications and an improvement in the quality of life for patients. Conclusion . The results of the experimental study confirm the advantages of using partially resorbable implants over traditional polypropylene meshes in pelvic floor reconstructive surgery. However, further research is needed to confirm the long-term safety and effectiveness of the new generation of implants.