Abstract: A degradable poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid, LA:GA=80:20)(PLGA) urethral tubular scaffold was fabricated by electrospinning. In order to enhance the mechanical properties, the scaffold was crosslinked with glutaraldehyde. The structure and properties of the crosslinked scaffolds were investigated by the mechanical property testing, scanning electron microscopy(SEM), degradability test in vitro and 3-(4,5)-dimethylthiahiazo(-z-yl)-3,5-diphenytetrazo- liumromide(MTT). The results show that the scaffold has the nano-structure. The pore size and the porosity are suitable for cell seeding, growth and extracellular matrix production. Although influenced by the crosslinking slightly, the pore size and the porosity could still support cell proliferation and tissuse formation. The mechanical properties are remarkably increased by the crosslinking of glutaraldehyde, and it could meet the demands of a urethral stent. The scaffold could completely collapse within 70 d. The results of the biocompatibility test show that the PLGA scaffold had no cytotoxicity.

Key words: Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), Urethral scaffold, Degradable, Electrospin, Crosslinking