A novel multilayer hydrogel wound dressing for antibiotic release

Abstract In this study, the novel multilayer (ML) hydrogels were developed as antibacterial wound dressings. ML hydrogels were prepared as four layers using carboxylated polyvinyl alcohol (PVA-C), gelatin (G), hyaluronic acid (HA) and gelatin respectively. The upper layers (PVA-C and G) provide the moist control and physical barrier for microorganisms. The HA based middle layer was designed as an antibiotic-loaded layer. The lower layer serves as the controlling membrane for antibiotic release and provides the removal of excess exudate from the wound site. The ML hydrogels were characterized with FT-IR, SEM, DSC, swelling tests and hydrolytic degradation tests. Cell viability assay was also performed in L929 fibroblast cells in vitro. The in-vitro drug release profile of ML hydrogels was investigated at pH 7.4 at 37 °C and it was found that 63% of the antibiotic was released after 7 days.