Biodegradation of PLA/GA polymers: increasing complexity

Biomaterials. 1994 Dec;15(15):1209-13. doi: 10.1016/0142-9612(94)90271-2.

Abstract

The degradation of aliphatic polyesters derived from lactic and glycolic acids (PLA/GA) depends on many factors. It has been found recently that the interior of large size devices degrades faster than the outer zone. A qualitative model has been proposed to account for this heterogeneous degradation. It is based on diffusion-reaction phenomena combined with the well-known autocatalytic effect of carboxylic chain ends. This contribution recalls the present understanding of the hydrolytic degradation of PLA/GA polymers and emphasizes its complexity on the basis of the influence of secondary factors such as the presence of a basic load, namely, gentamycin, in poly(lactic acid) matrices, and the presence of long stereoregular sequences in poly(DL-lactic acid) macromolecules.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry*
  • Biodegradation, Environmental
  • Chemistry, Pharmaceutical
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Gentamicins / administration & dosage
  • Lactates / chemistry*
  • Lactic Acid*
  • Molecular Weight
  • Polyesters
  • Polyglycolic Acid / chemistry*
  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Stereoisomerism

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Delayed-Action Preparations
  • Gentamicins
  • Lactates
  • Polyesters
  • Polymers
  • Polylactic Acid-Polyglycolic Acid Copolymer
  • Polyglycolic Acid
  • Lactic Acid
  • poly(lactide)