Nanoskin® Subcutaneous Implant in Guinea Pigs

Purpose: To evaluate the suitability of Nanoskin®, a biomaterial derived from bacterial cellulose, as an alternate material for repairing the posterior lamellae of the eyelids. Methods: Forty guinea pigs received a fragment of Nanoskin® subcutaneously in the dorsal region. The animals received Nanoskin® (group 1) or Nanoskin® coated with a gelatin layer (group 2). The animals were observed daily for over 7, 30, 90, or 180 days with the subcutaneous implants in place. The animals were euthanized at a designated time and the Nanoskin® was removed for histologic, morphometric, and transmission electron microscopy evaluation. Results: The results were similar for both groups. The subcutaneously implanted Nanoskin® resulted in good tissue integration, induced mild inflammation, and was surrounded by a delicate pseudocapsule. Conclusion: The good tissue integration of Nanoskin® in study indicates that it may be a potential material for application as a substitute of posterior eyelid lamellar tissue. Further clinical studies are required to confirm the preliminary outcomes of this experimental study.