This study investigated a chemically crosslinked poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogel controlled drug delivery system to deliver the anti-inflammatory drug dexamethasone (DEX). The PVA hydrogels, with different crosslinking densities, were characterised by swelling studies, electron scanning microscopy, viscosity, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and in vitro release assessment. Increasing crosslinking density slowed and decreased the swelling and water absorption. FTIR analysis suggested DEX has possible interactions with the crosslinker and the PVA polymer. In vitro release of DEX from PVA hydrogels was sustained for 33 days and appeared to fit the Higuchi and Korsmeyer-Peppas models. This work indicates the likelihood of PVA hydrogel as a controlled drug release system for DEX for anti-inflammatory uses.

The design and manufacture of artificial tissue for knee joints have been highlighted recently among researchers which necessitates an apt approach for its assessment. Even though most re-searches have focused on specific mechanical or tribological tests, other aspects have remained underexplored. In this review, elemental keys for design and testing artificial cartilage are dis-cussed and advanced methods addressed. Articular cartilage structure, its compositions in load-bearing and tribological properties of hydrogels, mechanical properties, test approaches and wear mechanisms are discussed. Bilayer hydrogels as a niche in tissue artificialization are presented, and recent gaps are assessed.