Small intestinal submucosa extracellular matrix envelopes secure
cardiovascular implantable devices and promote healthy tissue remodeling
Abstract
Introduction: Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) induce a
foreign body reaction and persistent inflammatory response that produces
a fibrotic capsule around the implanted material. The study’s aim was to
investigate the ability of small intestinal submucosa (SIS)
extracellular matrix (ECM) envelopes to mitigate fibrotic tissue
formation and secure devices within healthy, vascularized tissue.
Methods: Clinically relevant pacemakers without leads were
subcutaneously implanted in a pre-clinical rabbit model. Eleven CIEDs
were placed in CanGaroo ECM Envelopes, while ten devices were implanted
without envelopes and analyzed at 13 and 26 weeks. The subcutaneous
pocket and newly formed connective tissue adjacent to the CIED were
evaluated by an independent, blinded pathologist for the local tissue
response and constructive remodeling. CIED movement in the pocket was
also documented as implant sites were prone to abrasion due to normal
rabbit behavior. Results: CanGaroo Envelopes surrounding the CIEDs
remodeled into native tissue with normally organized collagen. The
tissue had a lower average thickness at 13 and 26 weeks compared to
tissue encapsulating CIEDs without envelopes. The tissue also scored
significantly higher in neovascularization versus capsule tissue
surrounding CIEDs without envelopes at 26 weeks. Use of the ECM envelope
reduced the incidence of device flipping within the pocket by 40%
compared to CIEDs without envelopes, showing the ability of CanGaroo
Envelopes to secure CIEDs in place. Conclusions: CanGaroo ECM Envelopes
remodeled into native, vascularized tissue surrounding clinically
applicable CIEDs. This thinner, healthy tissue pocket secured CIEDs and
significantly improved stabilization versus devices without envelopes
over 26 weeks.