Tissue response to implanted polymers: the significance of sample shape

Studies were designed to demonstrate the need for standardization of shape of samples used as implants to evaluate histotoxicity of polymer materials. Six medical-grade polymers (polypropylene, polyethylene, polyurethane, silicone rubber, poly(vinyl chloride), and Teflon) were extruded as rods with circular-, triangular-, and pentagonal-shaped cross sections, and were implanted in rat gluteal muscles for 14 days. Evaluation of the tissue response was assessed by quantitating cellular lysosomal acid phosphatase enzyme activity by using microspectrophotometry. All triangular-shaped implants showed the highest enzyme activity and cellular response; pentagon shapes showed less, and circular rods showed the lowest activity. The results demonstrate the need for standard sample shape for valid comparative studies of tissue response to implanted polymers.