Ionic Liquid-Reinforced Multifunctional Hydrogel for the Treatment of Enterocutaneous Fistula.

ABSTRACT: Enterocutaneous fistulas (ECFs) profoundly impact patients' quality of life, contributing to high morbidity rates and increased mortality due to ineffective treatment options. To address this challenge, ECFGel, a multifunctional, tissue adhesive injectable hydrogel, designed to occlude, sterilize, and promote healing of ECF tracts, is developed. ECFGel is formulated using gelatin and oxidized dextran (O-Dex) as base components, which form chemical crosslinks within the hydrogel and with surrounding biological tissues, ensuring tissue adhesiveness. A choline and geranate-based ionic liquid (IL) is incorporated to provide dual functionality, potent antimicrobial activity, and mechanical enhancement. By optimizing IL concentration, ECFGel achieves rapid gelation, enhanced mechanical strength,

SUBMITTER: Kim J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12288818 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature