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How to Sterilize Polylactic Acid Based Medical Devices?
Sara Pérez Davila1,2, Laura González Rodríguez1,2, Stefano Chiussi1,2
1New Materials Group, Campus Lagoas-Marcosende, CINTECX, Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain.
Polymers
|July 2, 2021
Summary
Sterilization methods can damage polylactic acid (PLA) medical devices. This review examines how common and alternative sterilization techniques affect PLA
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- Polylactic acid (PLA) is a key biopolymer for 3D-printed medical devices.
- Limited research exists on sterilization's impact on PLA properties.
- Conventional sterilization methods can degrade PLA.
Purpose of the Study:
- Review sterilization effects on PLA medical devices.
- Analyze impacts on physicochemical and biocompatible properties.
- Present alternative sterilization methods for biomaterials.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of sterilization techniques for PLA.
- Analysis of published data on PLA property changes.
- Inclusion of emerging and alternative sterilization methods.
Main Results:
- Conventional methods (heat, gamma, ethylene oxide) cause PLA degradation.
- Sterilization alters PLA's physicochemical and biocompatible properties.
- Specific damages and toxic byproducts are linked to certain methods.
Conclusions:
- Careful selection of sterilization is crucial for PLA devices.
- Alternative methods may better preserve PLA integrity.
- Further research is needed on sterilization of 3D-printed PLA.
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