Photocrosslinkable tissue adhesive based on dextran

A biodegradable tissue adhesive was prepared from dextran urethane (Dex-U), which could be photocrosslinked under the UV irradiation, and steadily adhere to surface of gelatin and mouse skin, which simulate the human tissue. The structures of above Dex-U were characterized by FTIR, 1H NMR spectroscopy and XRD. The adhesion properties of result products was evaluated by lap-shear test and burst pressure test. The highest adhesion strength and burst pressure could reach to 2.99 MPa and 35 mmHg, respectively. The photopolymerization process of Dex-U was monitored by real time infrared spectroscopy (RTIR), and the surface tension of Dex-U solution was tested by du Nouy Ring method. The cytotoxicity of Dex-U also was evaluated. The relationship between all above properties and degree of substitution of Dex-U was assessed. The adhesive strength of Dex-U is significantly higher than that of fibrin glue. The obtained products present the potential to serve as tissue adhesive in medical area in the future.