CHECKPOINT NEUROSHIELDTM is a chitosan polysaccharide membrane indicated for the repair of peripheral nerve injuries by providing a protective barrier during tissue healing.
Why Chitosan?
Chitosan, a derivative of chitin, is a natural, biodegradable polymer and is one of the most abundant organic resources on earth. Clinical and preclinical studies have shown that chitosan displays biocompatibility, biodegradability, low toxicity, and cellular compatibility, all of which are beneficial properties for neural tissue engineering.
Why Processing Matters
An in vitro cell culture of chitosan membranes with a low degree of acetylation indicated selective cell adhesion, promoted Schwann cell activity and proliferation, and prevented excessive fibroblast infiltration.(6)
Chitosan is produced commercially by the controlled deacetylation of chitin, the most abundant marine biopolymer in nature and a major component of the shell of shrimps and other crustaceans.(6) The degree of acetylation is one of the most important chemical characteristics of chitosan processing and has a direct influence on the final product characteristics for tissue engineering applications, such as biodegradation and cellular interactions.(11,12)
Preclinical studies have shown that lower acetylated materials lead to better results in terms of increased cell adhesion and are more supportive for peripheral nerve regeneration, when compared to materials with higher degrees of acetylation.(1,12)
Checkpoint NeuroShield is processed to a degree of acetylation of 5%, which has been shown in a preclinical, in vivo animal model to be supportive for peripheral nerve regeneration.(1)
To place a product order, or for more information, including pricing, please contact TSG Medical team.
An Optimized Biomaterial for Nerve Repair
Checkpoint NeuroShield’s transparency provides surgeons clear visualization of the nerve.
Through its proprietary processing method, resulting in a degree of acetylation of 5%, Checkpoint NeuroShield has been optimized for nerve repair. In an in vivo animal model comparing chitosan tubes of varying degrees of acetylation, a DA of 5% was the most supportive for peripheral nerve regeneration, allowing functional and morphological nerve regeneration.
Preclinical, in vitro studies have shown Schwann cell viability, migration, and proliferation on chitosan membranes, particularly those with a low deacetylation.
In a rat median nerve model, Checkpoint NeuroShield supported nerve fiber regeneration and functional recovery of neuromuscular function 12 weeks after median nerve damage.
Clinical Evidence
In a clinical study, the use of Checkpoint NeuroShield as a neuroprotective barrier resulted in a statistically significant improvement in recovery compared to the control group.
CHECKPOINT NEUROSHIELDTM is indicated for the repair of peripheral nerve injuries in which there is no gap or where a gap closure can be achieved by flexion of the extremity. Checkpoint NeuroShield nerve membranes are designed exclusively for single use. Allergic reactions to implanted products containing chitosan are not yet known. However, since chitosan is derived from shellfish, individuals with known shellfish allergies should exercise caution in the use of any product containing chitosan. As with all procedures carried out on peripheral nerves, there is a risk of the nerve not regenerating. Please see Instructions for Use for complete product specifications, indications, contraindications, precautions, and warnings.
- 40 x 30 x 0.03 mm
- 30 x 20 x 0.03 mm
