Bi-Layered Films based on Sodium Hyaluronate and Chitosan as Materials for ENT Surgery

Currently, the perforations of the nasal septum and tympanic membrane is a relevant problem in modern ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) surgery. In this regard, the development of universal materials is an extremely urgent and topical task for bioengineering and biomedicine. Hyaluronic acid, having a unique set of physicochemical, chemical, rheological, and biological properties, is an optimal biopolymer for the creation of such materials. Films based on hyaluronic acid assuredly have the necessary levels of biocompatibility and biodegradability, as well as promote wound healing process. In this research, films based on sodium hyaluronate with a molecular weight equal to 1.29 MDa and chitosan with a molecular weight equal to 0.5 MDa and 0.9 MDa for the potential treatment of nasal septum/tympanic membrane perforations were obtained and characterized. Films were fabricated from polymer solutions by layer-by-layer technique with the subsequent cross-linking and removal of the soluble phase. The optimal component composition resulting in materials with desired properties was determined. It was shown that the obtained polymer films have high porosity, roughness, and high adhesive ability. Further research related to the technology of such polymeric materials will promote the development of modern regenerative materials for nasal septum / tympanic membrane pathologies treatment.