Prof. Daniel Cohen has developed a unique type of polymer (a substance created by connecting smaller molecules) that creates a physical barrier between layers of dissected tissues and prevents adhesion of tissue surfaces that come in contact with each other
Tissue adhesion after surgery is a phenomenon that occurs in 85% of those operated on and is life-threatening, especially in repeat heart surgeries. Prof. Daniel Cohen from the Kazali Center for Applied Chemistry in the Institute of Chemistry at the Hebrew University has developed a new group of materials to prevent the adhesion of tissues after surgery.
Prof. Daniel Cohen developed a unique type of polymer (a substance created by connecting smaller molecules) that creates a physical barrier between layers of dissected tissues and prevents adhesion of tissue surfaces that come in contact with each other.
Adhesion is an abnormal adhesion of scar tissue that forms in the operated area after the operation and causes the organs to bind together. Adhesion naturally persists long after the operated site has healed and causes improper connection of organs, nerves, muscles and other neighboring structures.
Adhesion that occurs after heart surgery is particularly problematic since it may affect the heart's function. In many cases where repeated heart surgery is required, the infection obscures important points in and around the heart and may lead to damage to the blood vessels or the heart and endanger the life of the patient.
A wide variety of biomedical polymers that contribute significantly to modern medicine are already in use. These substances are foreign to the human body and come into direct contact with organs, tissues and fluids in the body.
Prof. Cohen's main contribution is in the development of a new group of biodegradable copolymers containing a compound of two different monomers (small molecules), each of which gives the polymer unique properties. The multiplicity of components in copolymers allows the adjustment of different properties in a group of materials, such as the basic structure of the materials and their composition and molecular weight, according to the medical requirements of each operation.
The barrier created by the polymer should remain in place for the period of time when adhesions may form (several days after surgery). After that it dissolves and gradually disappears without any harmful effect, but it requires treatment and stitches.
Prof. Daniel Cohen's invention was registered as a patent by "Yishom - the Research Development Society of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem". The patent is traded to the American "Synthe-Med" company, which is currently awaiting FDA approval for the first product, REPEL-CV, which it developed on the basis of the ingredients, for use in patients up to the age of 18. REPEL-CV has already received the CE Mark - approval of the European standard - for use in heart patients and today Marketed in most EU countries.
The Kay Award for Innovative Developments was recently awarded to Prof. Cohen as part of the 71st session of the Board of Trustees of the Hebrew University.
