Polylactides ‐ synthesis, characterization and medical application

Polymerizations of lactides via cationic, anionic, and insertion mechanisms are described. The usefulness of these three mechanisms for preparative purposes is evaluated. The polymerization mechanisms initiated by Al‐alkoxides or Sn(II)‐2‐ethylhexanoate are discussed in more detail. Furthermore, the usefulness of 13 C NMR spectroscopy for the sequence analysis of copolylactones is demonstrated. Copolyesters of D,L‐lactide and ϵ‐caprolactone with T g 's around 35°C and high transparency were synthesized. Films of these copolylactones were characterized by various methods and their usefulness as resorbable wound dressing was evaluated. More than 30 patients were successfully treated with this novel wound dressings.