SYNTHETIC BIOMEDICAL POLYMERS / CONCEPTS AND APPLICATIONS

An Integrated Approach to Hemocompatible Polymers: A Test Protocol by Michael Szycher
Synthesis and Biomedical Applications of Polyurethanes by Henri Ulrich, Henry W. Bonk and George C. Colovos
The Use of Segmented Polyurethane in Ventricular Assist Devices and Artificial Hearts by Winfred M. Phillips, William S. Pierce, Gerson Rosenberg, and James H. Donachy
Polyolefin Blood Pump Components by Raymond J. Kiraly and Donald V. Hillegass
Fabrication and Testing of Flocked Blood Pump Bladders by Victor Poirier
Parylene Coated Polypropylene Microfibers As Cell Seeding Substrates by F.R. Tittmann and W.F. Beach
Surface Grafted Polymers For Biomedical Applications by Buddy D. Ratner and Allan S. Hoffman
Fabrication and Characterization of Grafted Hydrogel Coatings As Blood Contacting Surfaces by Paul L. Kronick
Ophthalmic Hydrogels by Miguel F. Relojo, D.Sc.
Considerations on Encapsulation for Acute/Chronic Longevity of Electronic Implants by John W. Boretos.
Polyethylene Artificial Tendons by J.W. Hodge, Jr. and C.W.R. Wade, Ph.D.
Percutaneous Leads for Artificial Hearts and Other Prosthetic Devices by William J. Robinson and Benedict D.T. Daly, Ir...
Subject Index
Author Index

A Special Message to the Readers of Synthetic Biomedical Polymers from the authors

The field of Synthetic Biomedical Polymers is relatively new and, as such, not yet sharply defined. Undoubtedly, a thorough understanding of synthetic polymer chemistry is an obligatory requirement; but what about the "biomedical" qualifier? It is apparent that some background in the classical life sciences (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry and biophysics) is also important. Therefore, the approach taken in this book is multi-disciplinary: the reader will quickly discern that polymer chemistry is only a foundation, being reinforced by plastic engineering. histology, hematology, anatomy and other disciplines too numerous to mention.

Before undertaking the book, we deliberated over what subject mat-ter was most appropriate, what value it could provide, and who could benefit. A careful review of the existing literature revealed that there are several good texts on the subject, and that specialized journals cover a multitude of subjects. The literature also points out that there has been a transition from the pragmatism or serendipity of early investigators, into a more controlled, goal-oriented approach. Earlier attempts concen-trated in selecting commercially available polymers, cleaning or purifying them as much as possible, and using them as the starting points in the fabrication of prototype prostheses. Lately, the tendency has been to synthesize those polymers most suitable to the intended application, polymers so specialized that they may never become commercially viable, except for their use in biomedical applications.

With these thoughts in mind, the intent of this text is to emphasize, from a practical approach, the chemical and physical aspects of synthesis and fabrication as well as the properties of those polymers which are most compatible with biologic organisms. The approach has been to cover as many applications of synthetic biomedical polymers as possible and at the same time examine as many stages of their development as possible. The result is that we have cut across disciplines, centers of research, and topics in an effort to present a broad view of the field. The subject matter should be of interest to uninitiated as well as experienced polymer chemists, physical and biological scientists, physicians, surgeons, and engineers.

Development in the field is a dynamic state where new findings are constantly emerging. We have not covered all of the field or developments, nor have we limited the emphasis to a given area. Two families of polymers, however, are highlighted polyurethanes and hydrogels - since they have proven to be highly compatible with living systems, as well as being suitable to multiple fabrication methods and end products.

The contributors in this book represent the various disciplines cited previously and the topics originate from investigations conducted in the private and government as well as academic sectors. Some of the most fruitful applications of synthetic polymers are found in artificial heart research and development: this is reflected in the first eight chapters, which present diverse approaches to blood contacting surfaces and delineate the chemical and physical requirements of the various materials. Hydrogens, as a family, are promising materials for biomedical applications: three chapters describe hydrogels that use radiation curing as well as the more controversial aqueous phase during methods. The last three chapters discuss fresh approaches to long standing problem

areas in prosthesis development. This book would not have been possible without the efforts of the contributors, who represent the vanguard of this young emerging field.

The interest of the Society of Plastics Engineers and the support of Thermo Electron Corporation cannot be understated. Specifically, we would like to acknowledge the support and cooperation of these people who have been there on a daily basis: John T. Keiser, Vice President, Research and Development Center/New Business Division, and Victor L. Poirier, Manager, Biomedical Systems, our mentors; Dorothy L. Carchia and Thomas L. Coyne, editorial and graphic assistance; and Claudia W. Chase, communications and manuscripts.

Ingeniería Industrial