EXPERIMENTAL EVALUATION OF TISSUE RESPONSE TO IMPLANT MATERIALS UNDER ESCHERICHIA COLI CONTAMINATION.

Abstract

AIM OF THE STUDY: To compare tissue responses to xenoperitoneum-derived extracellular matrix (ECM), UltraPro mesh, and preserved dura mater in a rat model of implant-associated Escherichia coli infection. METHODS: Abdominal wall repair was performed in 42 rats using ECM, UltraPro mesh, or preserved dura mater with intraoperative E. coli contamination. Histological and morphometric evaluations were conducted on postoperative days 10 and 20, assessing inflammation, abscess formation, necrosis, neovascularization, and tissue integration. RESULTS: On day 10, all groups demonstrated acute inflammation. Abscess and necrosis were significantly lower with UltraPro than with ECM and preserved dura mater (p<0.05). By day 20, UltraPro maintained minimal tissue damage and showed the highest neovascularization and tissue integration, while preserved dura mater exhibited persistent inflammation. ECM demonstrated reduced necrosis and signs of tissue remodeling at later stages. CONCLUSION: UltraPro mesh provides superior early resistance to infection-related tissue damage, whereas potential advantages of ECM appear context-dependent and are more evident at later stages.