Repeated Application and Removal of Polyisocyanopeptide Hydrogel Wound Dressings in a Splinted Full-Thickness Wound Model

Polyisocyanopeptide (PIC) hydrogels are proposed as promising wound dressings. These gels are thermo-sensitive, allow application as a cold liquid, and rely on gelation through body heat. It is supposed that the gel can be easily removed by reversing the gelation and washing it away with a cold irrigation solution. The impact on wound healing of the regular application and removal of PIC dressings is compared to a single application of PIC and the clinically used Tegaderm™ in murine splinted full-thickness wounds for up to 14 days. SPECT/CT analysis of (111)In-labelled PIC gels showed that, on average, 58% of the PIC gel could be washed out of the wounds with the employed method, which is, however, heavily influenced by personal technique. Evaluation with photography and (immuno-)histology showed that wounds in which PIC dressings were regularly removed and replaced were smaller at 14 days post-injury but performed on par with the control treatment. Moreover, the encapsulation of PIC in wound tissue was less severe and occurred less often when PIC was regularly refreshed. In addition, no morphological damage related to the removal procedure was observed. Thus, PIC gels are atraumatic and perform similarly to currently employed wound dressing materials, offering possible future benefits for both clinicians and patients.