Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026
08:17
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.
Journal of Biomedical Materials Research
|August 1, 1988
Summary
High-energy irradiation sterilization can negatively impact the long-term performance of polymeric medical devices. Careful evaluation is crucial, especially for long-term implants, to prevent potential failures due to radiation-induced property changes.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Medical Device Sterilization
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- High-energy irradiation is a common sterilization method for medical devices and implants.
- Polymeric biomaterials used in tissue and blood contact applications may be susceptible to radiation-induced degradation.
- Trace additives in polymers can interact with radiation, potentially altering material properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential adverse effects of high-energy irradiation on the long-term performance of polymeric biomaterials.
- To emphasize the importance of considering additives and synergistic effects during irradiation.
- To differentiate between short-term and long-term implant applications regarding radiation tolerance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on the effects of high-energy irradiation on polymers.
- Analysis of the impact of catalysts and additives on material degradation.
- Assessment of property changes in relation to application duration (acute vs. chronic).
Main Results:
- Irradiation sterilization can compromise the mechanical and biological performance of polymeric implants.
- Additives and polymer chains may undergo synergistic effects under irradiation, leading to unpredictable changes.
- Short-term applications may tolerate minor property alterations, unlike long-term applications where failures can occur.
Conclusions:
- Polymeric implants sterilized by high-energy irradiation require thorough evaluation for long-term stability.
- The potential for radiation-induced degradation necessitates careful material selection and application-specific assessment.
- Understanding the influence of additives and application duration is critical for ensuring implant safety and efficacy.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Bacterial Signaling
Bacterial signaling can occur within bacteria (intracellular) or between bacteria (intercellular). At times, a group of bacteria behaves like a community. To achieve this, they engage in quorum sensing, the perception of higher cell density that causes changes in gene expression. Quorum sensing involves both extracellular and intracellular signaling. The signaling cascade starts with a molecule called an autoinducer (AI). Individual bacteria produce AIs that move out of the bacterial cell...
01:30Cleaning, Sterilization, and Disinfection
Cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization are the methods that help to break the infection chain and prevent disease.
Cleaning
The cleaning process usually involves using water with detergents or enzymatic cleaner and removing foreign material from objects and surfaces, including organic material such as body fluids or inorganic material like soil. Cleaning is performed before high-level disinfection and sterilization because foreign materials on the cover of the devices interfere with process...
Cleaning
The cleaning process usually involves using water with detergents or enzymatic cleaner and removing foreign material from objects and surfaces, including organic material such as body fluids or inorganic material like soil. Cleaning is performed before high-level disinfection and sterilization because foreign materials on the cover of the devices interfere with process...
01:29Methods of Sterilization I: Physical Methods
As used in a healthcare facility, sterilization destroys all microorganisms through physical or chemical methods. The physical method includes steam, dry heat, boiling water, and radiation.
Steam sterilization uses non-toxic, low-cost moist heat in the form of saturated steam under pressure, which is fast, microbicidal, and sporicidal, and quickly warms and penetrates fabrics. Autoclaves, or steam sterilizers, expose each item to direct steam contact for a predetermined time at the necessary...
Steam sterilization uses non-toxic, low-cost moist heat in the form of saturated steam under pressure, which is fast, microbicidal, and sporicidal, and quickly warms and penetrates fabrics. Autoclaves, or steam sterilizers, expose each item to direct steam contact for a predetermined time at the necessary...
01:30Methods of Sterilization II: Chemical Methods
In healthcare, the chemical method of sterilization uses chemical sterilants to treat surgical instruments and medical supplies to help prevent the transmission of infectious pathogens to patients. Due to heat sensitivity, most medical supplies and equipment should not be exposed to high temperatures. These parts include rubber, plastic, glass, and other similar elements.
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
Using chemical sterilization rather than heat to clean out equipment is recommended. It eradicates and removes all bacteria,...
01:26Physical Methods for Controlling Microbial Growth: Radiation and Filtration
Radiation and filtration are essential tools for microbial control, targeting microorganisms through distinct mechanisms. Radiation eliminates microbes by damaging their DNA, either killing them or inhibiting their growth. Based on wavelength, radiation is classified into two types: nonionizing and ionizing radiation.Non-ionizing radiation, such as UV radiation (200–400 nm), is absorbed by DNA, causing defects that effectively disinfect surfaces, air, and water, including safety cabinets.