Summary
Objectives and Hypothesis
A novel, silk protein-based injectable filler was engineered with the intention of
vocal fold augmentation as its eventual intended use. This injectable filler leverages
the unique properties of silk protein's superior biocompatibility, mechanical tunability,
and slow in vivo degradation to one day better serve the needs of otolaryngologists. This paper intends
to demonstrate the mechanical properties of the proposed novel injectable and to evaluate
its longevity in animal models.
Materials and Methods
Experimental. The mechanical properties of silk bulking agents were determined to
characterize deformation resistance and recovery compared with commercially available
calcium hydroxylapatite through rheologic testing. Fresh porcine vocal fold tissue
was used for injectable placement to simulate the mechanical outcomes of native tissue
after bulking procedures. In vivo subcutaneous rodent implantation examined immune response, particle migration, and
volume retention.
Results
Porous, elastomeric silk microparticles demonstrate high recovery (>90% original volume)
from compressive strain and mimic the native storage modulus of soft tissues (1–3 kPa).
Injectable silk causes only a slight increase in porcine vocal fold stiffness immediately
after injection (20%), preserving the native mechanics of bulked tissue. In the subcutaneous
rat model, silk demonstrated biocompatibility and slow degradation, thus enabling
host cell integration and tissue deposition.
Conclusions
The presented novel silk injectable material demonstrates favorable qualities for
a vocal fold injection augmentation material. An in vivo long-term canine study is planned.
Key Words
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: March 30, 2018
Accepted:
January 18,
2018
Footnotes
This work was performed at Sofregen Inc., 200 Boston Avenue, Medford MA, 02155.
Financial disclosure: Thomas Carroll discloses consulting fees from Sofregen Inc.
Identification
Copyright
© 2018 The Voice Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
