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Updated: Aug 15, 2026

Low-Dose Gamma Radiation Sterilization for Decellularized Tracheal Grafts
Published on: April 14, 2023
Radiation sterilization of polymeric implant materials
1Biomedical Materials and Medical Devices Consulting Group, Stephen D. Bruck Associates, Inc., Rockville, Maryland 20851.
Abstract:
High-energy irradiation sterilization of medical devices and implants composed of polymeric biomaterials that are in contact with tissue and/or blood, may adversely affect their long-term mechanical and/or biological performance (tissue and/or blood compatibility). Since many polymeric implants may contain trace quantities of catalysts and/or other additives, the effect of high-energy radiation on these additives, and possible synergistic effects with the polymer chains under the influence of high-energy radiation, must be considered. It is essential to indicate whether polymeric implants are used in short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic) applications. Relatively small changes in their physicochemical, mechanical, and biological properties may be tolerable in the short term, whereas similar changes may lead to catastrophic failures in long-term applications. Therefore, polymeric implants which are to be sterilized by high-energy irradiation should be carefully evaluated for long-term property changes which may be induced by the radiation.
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