Graphene-based nanocomposite materials to provide a surgical solution for the condition of pelvic organ prolapse

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a globally prevalent condition effecting over half of post-menopausal women. It is caused by a weakening of the soft tissue of the pelvic floor so that it is no longer able to support the organs of the pelvis. This results in a descent of the pelvic organs down the vagina, including bladder, rectum, small bowel, uterus, or vaginal vault (post-hysterectomy). Symptoms can include discomfort and pain, urinary incontinence, faecal incontinence, and dyspareunia, depending on the organ effected. This can have a significant impact on mental, social, and sexual wellbeing.

Current conservative management options include lifestyle changes or the insertion of a temporary silicone pessary. The silicone pessary requires regular maintenance and replacement and can thus result in secondary pain and discomfort. Surgical options include native tissue repair or surgical augmentation with the use of a polypropylene (PP) mesh adjunct. However, the PP mesh implants have now been banned in several countries – including UK, USA, Canada and Australia, due to concerns over the safety of the material. Complications of the PP mesh included mesh exposure; chronic infection; chronic pain; and dyspareunia. These complications are thought to have occurred due to a mismatch of the biomechanical/viscoelastic properties of the PP mesh and native tissue, at the site of implantation. The alternative of native tissue repair has a high recurrence rate for POP and does not provide an effective cure to the condition. Therefore, POP is a condition with an unmet clinical need.

Scientists across the globe consider graphene to be a ‘wonder material’ with superior physicochemical properties that will revolutionise every field and all industries. Graphene is a 2D single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a honeycomb lattice structure. Its properties include being 200× stronger than steel but at the same time incredibly lightweight and elastic. We developed a graphene-based nanocomposite (GBN) material that harnesses the superior properties of graphene. The material is non-toxic and biocompatible and suitable for surgical application. It is currently under development for heart valves, breast implants, and tendons, amongst other applications. The objective of this research is to use this GBN material for the development of a surgical membrane for the treatment of POP.