Evaluation of Biomaterials for Bladder Augmentation using Cystometric Analyses in Various Rodent Models

Journal of Visualized Experiments, 2012 · DOI: 10.3791/3981 · Published: August 9, 2012

Simple Explanation

The urinary bladder's ability to store urine at low pressure and expel it with a coordinated contraction is essential for renal function and continence. Several conditions can impair bladder compliance and reduce capacity, leading to urinary incontinence and kidney damage. Current research focuses on identifying biomaterials that can support tissue regeneration at defect sites in the bladder. However, existing materials often suffer from mechanical integrity and biocompatibility issues, leading to complications. This study presents surgical methods for bladder augmentation in mice and rats using silk scaffolds, along with cystometric techniques to assess the urodynamic properties of engineered bladders. These functional evaluations can help determine scaffold properties before large animal studies and clinical use.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

30+ rodents per experiment

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Variations in structural and mechanical implant properties can influence the urodynamic features of tissue-engineered bladders.
2
Positive correlations exist between the degree of matrix-mediated tissue regeneration and functional compliance and capacity.
3
Rodent bladder augmentation systems provide a useful format for assessing scaffold properties and establishing in vivo feasibility.

Research Summary

The study focuses on evaluating biomaterials for bladder augmentation using cystometric analyses in rodent models. Surgical implantation of gastrointestinal segments, the primary treatment for bladder disorders, has limitations, prompting research into bladder tissue engineering. Conventional 3-D scaffolds have shown some success but often result in fibrosis, graft contracture, and calcification. The research highlights the need for novel matrices to restore normal voiding characteristics. The study presents surgical methods for bladder augmentation in mice and rats using silk scaffolds and demonstrates techniques for awake and anesthetized cystometry, providing a basis for assessing scaffold properties and in vivo feasibility.

Practical Implications

Biomaterial Selection

The study provides a methodology for evaluating biomaterials, like silk fibroin, for bladder augmentation, aiding in the selection of optimal materials for clinical use.

Surgical Technique Refinement

The detailed surgical methods described can serve as a standardized protocol for bladder augmentation in rodent models, improving the consistency and comparability of research outcomes.

Functional Assessment Standardization

The cystometric techniques demonstrated offer a means of standardizing functional outcome assessments, enabling researchers to better evaluate the efficacy of different biomaterial configurations.

Study Limitations

1
The major difference between augmenting the bladder in rats versus mice is the size of the bladder.
2
Smaller, more pliable tubes may not transmit pressure changes to the transducer accurately.
3
Multiple anesthetics have been shown to inhibit spontaneous bladder contractions.

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