Robust water-activated tissue adhesive patch for arterial/heart wound closure after intervention surgery

Sealing of puncture points subsequent to interventional surgeries is a vital requirement for all interventional operations. Currently, large-diameter sheaths and transapical punctures present a significant challenge for wound closure, with a high probability of failure. In this study, we’ve developed a water-activated tissue adhesive patch (WAP) designed for quick and strong adhesion to blood vessel and heart tissue surfaces after surgery. This patch consists of a polyethylene glycol (PEG) derivative coating and a gelatin sponge. Upon contact with a vascular or cardiac wound, the PEG derivative coating quickly absorbs water, dissolves, undergoes rapid crosslinking, and adheres to the tissue surface. This patch can endure a burst pressure more than 300 mmHg and exhibits good biosafety, thereby ensuring effective wound closure and healing. Animal studies have demonstrated that the patch effectively closes wounds and rapidly achieves hemostasis through simple adhesion. This has been exemplified in male porcine models, including heart stab wounds, femoral artery punctures using a 14 Fr sheath, and abdominal aorta punctures with a 20 Fr sheath. Follow-up evaluations indicate favorable postoperative wound healing. When paired with a suitable delivery device, the WAP stands as a potent candidate for the next generation of vascular and transapical closure device. Sealing of puncture points after interventional surgeries is a vital requirement, but large diameter sheaths and transapical punctures present a significant challenge for wound closure. Here, the authors present a water-activated tissue adhesive patch designed for quick and strong adhesion to blood vessel and heart tissue surfaces after surgery.