Hybrid biomaterials based on the interaction of polyurethane oligomers with porcine pericardium.

Hybrid biomaterials have been produced by the interaction of polyurethane oligomers with both fresh and glutaraldehyde-fixed porcine pericardium. The hybrid biomaterials so formed were translucent with occasional white streaks and/or spots, had increased stiffness (to touch) but remained pliable. No shrinkage temperature was detected for fresh porcine pericardium hybrid up to 100 degrees C compared to porcine pericardium (approximately 67 degrees C) and glutaraldehyde-fixed porcine pericardium (approximately 87 degrees C). Amino acid analysis of the fresh porcine pericardium hybrid showed a reduction in lysine content after active isocyanate-terminated polyurethane oligomers exposure, indicating cross-linking between the polymer and tissue. Histological examination of the hybrid material shows a thin grey coating on both surfaces of the tissue, implying at least surface cross-linking of the tissue with polyurethane. The results suggest that fresh porcine pericardium can be reacted with active isocyanate-terminated polyurethane oligomers to produce hybrid biomaterials with covalent bonding.