Platelet deposition studies on copolyether urethanes modified with poly(ethylene oxide).

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Polymer Chemistry
• Surface Modification

Background:

• Pellethane 2363 80A is a polyurethane used in medical devices.
• Platelet deposition on biomaterials can lead to adverse thrombotic events.
• Surface modification is crucial for improving the biocompatibility of medical implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effect of chemical modifications on Pellethane 2363 80A.
• To evaluate the impact of grafting poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) on platelet deposition.
• To assess the blood compatibility of modified Pellethane surfaces.

Main Methods:

• Chemical modification of Pellethane 2363 80A films and tubings.
• Grafting of high molecular weight poly(ethylene oxide) and methoxy poly(ethylene glycol) 400 methacrylate.
• Contact angle measurements to assess surface wettability.
• Capillary flow system to study platelet deposition using various perfusates.

Main Results:

• Modified surfaces exhibited increased water wettability and hydrophilicity.
• Significantly reduced platelet deposition was observed on modified surfaces compared to unmodified Pellethane 2363 80A, especially with activated platelets.
• Platelet deposition was minimal when using a buffer-containing perfusate.
• Low platelet deposition was observed with citrated plasma-containing perfusate on PEO-modified surfaces.

Conclusions:

• Grafting poly(ethylene oxide) onto Pellethane 2363 80A improves its blood compatibility.
• The enhanced hydrophilicity of modified surfaces contributes to reduced platelet adhesion.
• These findings support the use of PEO-grafted surfaces for biomedical applications requiring improved hemocompatibility.