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December 2, 2008 10:48:35 AM CST

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Gecko Toes Inspire New Surgical Tape

Posted Feb 19, 08 9:20 AM CST in Science & Health 

(Newser) – Inspired by geckos' sticky feet, MIT scientists have developed a bandage that could soon be used in place of stitches or staples during surgery. The waterproof material, coated with a sugar-based adhesive that has the nano-scale hills and valleys found on lizard feet, is flexible enough to be used on internal organs, MSNBC reports. Live studies have focused on rats, but human application isn't far off.

"This is exciting because it shows that we can go beyond nature to engineer designs that never evolved," said a researcher who previously utilized gecko secrets in developing a dry adhesive. The research team envisions coating the new patches with antibiotics to help patients recover. "This product would be needed, if it’s available," one surgeon agreed.

Source MSNBC

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Surgeons may eventually no longer have to practice their sewing skills, if gecko bandages are successfully adapted for use inside humans.   (KRT Photos)
Several scientific teams so far have drawn inspiration from the Gecko's unique feet, creating products ranging from the re-stickable "Geckel" to surgical aids.   (Earth Life Forms - Animals)
A Gecko's sticky feet help it to climb vertical surfaces, including this boy's shirt.   (Getty Images)
A gecko's special feet allow it to climb vertical surfaces, but keep it from sticking too tightly.   (Shutterstock (Alex James Bramwell))
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