Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells in biosutures do not improve healing of experimental colonic anastomoses

Abstract

Background: The feasibility of producing 'biosutures' coated with adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ASCs) was assessed and their effect on colonic anastomoses evaluated. Methods: Sutures were cultured with ASCs isolated from BDLX rats before analysis by light and scanning electron microscopy. Anastomoses were performed in 40 BDLX rats using either biosutures or conventional sutures. Histopathologicl features, adhesion formation and anastomotic strength were evaluated. Results: Sutures were coated with ASCs within 24 h. Anastomoses made with biosutures had a lower adhesion index only during the first week (P = 0.006 at 7 days), but not subsequently. There were no significant differences in anastomotic healing with the two types of suture. Conclusion: ASC biosutures have no effect on anastomotic healing in rats. Copyright ©2008 British Journal of Surgery Society Ltd.