Article | February 17, 2021
Reducing The Surface Friction Of Medical Devices - A New Functional Application For A Commercial Biomaterials Surface Modification Technology
By Alexandra Piotrowicz, Manager of Product Development, Surface Modification, Evonik Health Care
As the number of minimally invasive surgeries continues to grow, there is a need to design low-profile devices with optimal surface properties for easy insertion and trackability. Devices such as introducer sheaths, delivery catheters, endoscopes, and neurovascular microcatheters come in contact with various bodily fluids and tissue, including skin, blood vessels, and the urinary tract. The surface design of such devices should aim to minimize trauma during insertion and removal, reduce tissue inflammation, enable maneuverability through tortuous blood vessels, and improve patient comfort. Furthermore, surface properties should promote smooth movement between certain device components,