A Method for the Consistent Creation and Quantitative Testing of Postoperative Pelvic Adhesions in a Porcine Model

摘要

Introduction: The assessment of methods for the prevention of postoperative pelvic adhesions is hampered by the lack of a quantifiable adhesion measurement technique. Currently available methods for adhesion model assessment rely on qualitative grading scales; a quantitative method would have many attendant benefits, including standardized reporting. Methods: A technique was developed to generate consistent and significant adhesions in a swine model that are suitable for quantitative assessment using a Material Testing System (MTS) machine platform. In this method, the uterine horns are cannulated and then attached to the pelvic sidewall using loose silk sutures. The underlying side-wall and adjacent uterine serosa are injured with electrocautery. Following a two-week survival the entire complex of uterine horn and sidewall are excised en bloc and prepared for MTS testing. Results: Extrication of the adhesion, as measured by the MTS platform, generates a quantitative assessment of adhesion strength that can be scaled and analyzed to produce several continuous variable descriptions. Discussion: This technique represents a novel quantitative method for adhesion assessment in an animal model. This quantitative technique may then be applied to accurately assess a range of adhesion prevention techniques, producing results which can be standardized for comparison.