Tyramine‐Based Hyaluronan as a Tracheal Cartilage Substitute

Objective: To investigate and characterize a novel tyramine-based hyaluronan/gelatin (THA/G) composite material. First, we demonstrate the ability of THA/G to adhere and maintain respiratory epithelial cells in an in vitro model. Second, we assess the feasibility of THA/G as a biologic cartilage substitute in a rabbit model of tracheal reconstruction.Method: Immortalized human tracheal epithelial cells were grown on various concentrations of THA/G composites in vitro. Cricotracheal resection with replacement by THA/G was performed in 4 New Zealand white rabbits with auricular cartilage as control in 2 animals. Tracheal patency, graft retention, and mucosalization were evaluated via endoscopy, imaging, and histopathology.Results: Epithelial cell growth was demonstrated on THA/G composites in vitro. In the rabbit model, all composites remained intact within the tracheal resection. However, the limited shear strength of the THA/G posed difficulties in securing the construct. At 3 and 6 weeks postimplantation...