RESUMO
Introduction: We propose a new facial lifting protocol using polydioxanone (PDO) threads embedded in acetyl hexapeptide-8 (Argireline [Arg]). We assume that Arg reinforces the effects of PDO threads, as it is a mimetic of botulinum toxin. Because the PDO suture is hydrolyzable, this assumption is analyzed by instrumental analysis. Objective: To demonstrate the capacity of the PDO suture as a system for the controlled release of acetyl hexapeptide-8 to apply in deep wrinkles of the upper third. Materials and Methods: Three segments of 1-cm long 21G PDO threads immersed in 1 mL of Arg. PDO threads were observed under an optical, electron microscope at 24, 48, and 72 h later. They were also weighed before and after being soaked in Arg, and employing ultraviolet (UV)-visible spectroscopy, the release rate of Arg from the PDO suture was measured. Finally, was insert the thread PDO-Arg following a protocol designed especially for deep static wrinkles in the upper third. Results: The electronic weighing revealed that the PDO thread enjoys capillarity by the peptide, doubling its weight every 24 h. UV spectra revealed that PDO thread is a well-controlled release system for Arg, allowing its sustained release for 1 h. Optical and electronic photomicrographs confirm the swelling of the PDO thread by absorbing Arg by its capillarity, but this hydrophilicity does not lead to its premature physical degradation. Conclusions: The PDO thread system with Arg is an intelligent bioactive system useful in facial harmonization. It recommend conduct clinical trial to verify his superior lifting effect.
RESUMO
Recently, some clinicians have proposed implanting polydioxanone (PDO) threads imbibed in hyaluronic acid (HA), arguing that this may reinforce the lifting effects. However, this is controversial because PDO sutures are hydrophilic and the presence of HA could increase the rate of hydrolysis. The aim of this study was to demonstrate the degradation of PDO lifting threads in HA through ultramicroscopy. It was a qualitative research and preclinical trial. Three, 1-cm-long, segments of 23-G PDO threads were immersed in 1.5-mL non-crosslinked HA in previously labeled, sterile microcentrifuge tubes. These were observed by ultramicroscopy at 4× and 10× after 24, 48, and 72 h. Microphotographs taken after 24 h show structural changes in the fibers, presenting an increase in interlaminar spaces and dilution of violet pigmentation. At 48 h, degradation continues. PDO hygroscopy is observed as aqueous content between the peripheral layers and the central core of the thread. At 72 h, as the pigment is released, larger empty spaces are observed in the central column of the thread, and there is disorganization of the peripheral fibrils with fraying all along the fiber. HA induces rapid biodegradation of the PDO thread by hydrolysis beginning 24 h after contact of the thread with the biomaterial. The non-crosslinked HA is a powerful catalyzing agent for hydrolytic degradation of the PDO thread, because this thread is highly hydrophilic. Clinically, embedding PDO threads in HA accelerates biodegradation of the suture.
