A Study of Implant Integration Processes at the Submicroscopic Level in the Early Postoperative Period

Objective: The processes of biological implant integration and regeneration of surrounding tissues after surgery are insufficiently studied. A more detailed investigation of morphological changes at different stages of implantation and the postoperative period can help identify potential causes of adverse reactions to specific types of implants, modify existing materials, and consequently, improve the quality of treatment and patient life prognosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the integration process of synthetic and biological implants at the submicroscopic level in the early postoperative period. Material and Methods: Surgeries were performed to implant a synthetic mesh and a xenopericardial patch into the anterior abdominal wall and the wall of the small intestine in 10 adult male Chinchilla rabbits. Fourteen days after the operation, tissue fragments with the implanted materials were examined using a backscattered electron detector in a scanning electron microscope. Results: The polypropylene mesh formed a less stable structure, as its biointegration resulted in the formation of “folds” and “empty” areas not filled with new connective tissue. The stability of the xenopericardial patch was ensured by the similar orientation of its own fibers and newly formed collagen fibers. Conclusion: Polypropylene implants may become mobile within the surrounding tissues, reducing the effectiveness of the surgery. In the early postoperative period, xenopericardium exhibits better fixation to the tissues into which it was implanted.