In vitro assessment of the hemocompatible properties of polymers

Based on the available data in the literature and personal results, a system of in vitro tests, consisting of two levels of selection, was proposed for assessment of hemocompatible properties of polymers. The first level consists of rapid methods for preliminary assessment (clotting time, hemolytic activity of the sample, and number of adhesive platelets). The second level involves methods for final selection and consists of measurement of the kinetics of the initial stages of adsorption of albumin, the degree of activation of the complement system, the intensity of radical oxidation of the lipid fraction of the blood, and the degree of platelet spreading. Comparative experimental assessment of these methods was conducted with a number of polymers and revealed the confidence limits for the application of each test and suggested quantitative criteria for selection.