Abstract
Purpose:
To evaluate the histopathological changes associated with the integration process of a polycaprolactone (PCL) mesh implant in the rabbit eyelid.
Methods:
Three male, 1 year old New Zealand white rabbits underwent implantation of a 1mm thick three-dimensional PCL (Osteomesh,® Osteopore, Singapore) mesh in their lower eyelids. The implants were sutured to the lower border of the inferior tarsus in the subconjunctival space after disinsertion of the lower retractors, and the retractors were then sutured to the mesh. Postoperative local reactions, animal behavior and wound healing were monitored 3 times a day for the first week and then weekly for 3 months. After 3 months, the animals were euthanized, and the eyelids with the implants and the surrounding tissues including the periorbita were excised and sent for histological evaluation.
Results:
None of the animals developed systemic toxicity throughout the experimental period. All wounds healed well and eyelid infection, implant migration and implant extrusion were all not observed. The Osteomesh® implants were completely resorbed in all cases. Fibrovascular integration was demonstrated as replacement of the implant by a fibrovascular scar. Small granulation-type capillaries were seen in all cases. In 2 of the 3 cases, cystic encapsulation by a foreign body giant cell reaction was seen. However, the overlying epidermis and underlying conjunctiva were not inflamed or ulcerated, and there was only a minimal lymphocytic infiltration seen in all cases.
Conclusions:
Osteomesh® implants undergo resorption and fibrovascular replacement with minimal inflammation and no significant complications in rabbit eyelids within 3 months of implantation. The implant has the potential for use as a tarsal substitute with further study.
Keywords: 526 eyelid •
631 orbit •
637 pathology: experimental