The biocompatibility of solution cast and acetone-extracted cast Biomer

The cellular response to films of cast Biomer and acetone-extracted Biomer were investigated over a 21-day implantation period, using an in vivo cage implant system. Film samples were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), attenuated total reflectance infrared (ATR-IR), electron spectroscopy for chemical analysis (ESCA) and by contact angle measurements before implantation, and by SEM and ESCA after implantation and cleaning. Cellular and protein components of the inflammatory response were analyzed at periodic observation points after implantation. In addition, film samples were retrieved at 4, 7, and 21 days after implantation and analyzed for leukocyte adhesion by light microscopy and SEM. The results demonstrated that cast Biomer contains an extractable fraction, which when removed significantly improves the biocompatibility of the material.