Histological evaluation of Permacol™ as a subcutaneous implant over a 20-week period in the rat model

This study assessed the suitability of Permacol™ (a porcine derived, isocyanate cross linked collagen based biomaterial) as an alternative to autologous tissue in soft tissue reconstruction. The Sprague–Dawley rat was used as a model for subcutaneous implantation over a 20 week period and comparison made with two other porcine biomaterials (small intestinal submucosa and glycerol treated-ethylene oxide sterilised porcine dermis). Implants were scored histometrically on the degree of acute inflammation, chronic inflammation, fibrosis and stromal response. The vascularity and percentage composition of collagen within Permacol™ were assessed by stereology and seescan image analysis, respectively. In general terms, Permacol™ was well tolerated as a subcutaneous implant, with only a minor chronic inflammatory response remaining after a 20 week period of implantation. There was evidence of collagen degradation during this period and vascular ingrowth into Permacol™ was limited. Permacol™ has the potential for a broad range of applications in plastic surgery, but may benefit from modification to promote a more rapid degree of vascularisation.