Abstract:
The study focuses on the development of novel Aloe vera based polymeric composite films and antimicrobial suture coatings. Poly-vinyl alcohol (PVA), a synthetic biocompatible and biodegradable polymer was combined with Aloe vera, a natural herb used for soothing burning effects and cosmetic purposes. The properties of these two materials were combined together to get additional benefits such as wound healing and prevention from surgical site infections. PVA and Aloe vera were mixed in a fixed quantity to produce polymer based films. The films were screened for anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity against bacterial (E.coli, P.aeruginosa) and fungal strains (Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus tubingensis) were screened. Aloe vera based PVA films showed antimicrobial activity against all the strains; the lowest Aloe vera concentration (5%) showed the highest activity against all the strains. In-vitro degradation and release profile of these films was also evaluated. The coating for sutures was prepared, in-vitro antibacterial tests of these coated sutures were carried out and later on in vivo studies of these coated sutures were also performed. The results showed that sutures coated with Aloe vera/PVA coating solution have antibacterial effects thus have the potential to be used in the prevention of surgical site infections and Aloe vera/PVA based films have the potential to be used for wound healing purposes.
