Researchers have now developed the first hydrogel implant designed for use in fallopian tubes. This innovation performs two functions: one is to act as a contraceptive, the other is to prevent the recipient from developing endometriosis in the first place or to halt the spread if they do.

An advantage of hydrogels is that they swell when brought into contact with liquid. As a result, this new implant starts off at approximately 2 mm in length. But once implanted in the fallopian tubes as part of a nonsurgical procedure using a hysteroscope — an instrument for inspecting the uterine cavity — the implant swells to more than double its original size. The hydrogel then acts as a barrier to both sperm and blood.

The hydrogel implant can be easily and quickly destroyed, either with UV light or a special solution, so that recipients don’t have to have an invasive and risky operation should they decide to reverse the procedure. (Image Credit: AdobeStock)

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Topics:
Diseases Drug Delivery Implants & Prosthetics Materials Medical Medical equipment and supplies Medical, health and wellness Prostheses and implants Research and development Smart materials

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    This article first appeared in the November, 2024 issue of Medical Design Briefs Magazine (Vol. 14 No. 11).

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