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Interaction of thrombocytes with poly(ether imide): The influence of processing
1Center for Biomaterial Development, Institute of Polymer Research, GKSS-Forschungszentrum Geesthacht GmbH, Teltow, Germany.
Clinical Hemorheology and Microcirculation
|December 8, 2010
Summary
Polymer processing significantly impacts blood-contacting device surfaces. Poly(ether imide) (PEI) membranes showed higher thrombogenicity than PEI films due to altered surface properties, highlighting the need for final product evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Science
- Medical Device Engineering
Background:
- Polymer processing critically influences the surface characteristics of blood-contacting medical devices.
- Understanding these surface property changes is essential for device safety and efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how processing affects the physicochemical surface properties of poly(ether imide) (PEI) membranes and films.
- To evaluate the thrombogenicity of PEI membranes and films based on their processing-induced surface differences.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of PEI membranes and films.
- Surface characterization using atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy, contact angle, and zeta potential measurements.
- Static platelet adhesion tests to assess thrombogenicity.
Main Results:
- PEI membranes exhibited increased mean surface roughness and dispersive surface energy compared to PEI films.
- Contact angle and zeta potential measurements showed no significant differences between the two forms.
- PEI films demonstrated significantly lower platelet adhesion (178.98 ± 102.70/45000 μm²) than PEI membranes (504 ± 314.27/45000 μm²).
Conclusions:
- Polymer processing significantly alters surface properties, influencing platelet adhesion and thrombogenicity, even with identical molecular weight.
- The thrombogenicity of polymer-based cardiovascular devices must be assessed at the final product level, considering the entire manufacturing process.
