Biocompatibility of polymer surfaces interacting with living tissue

Abstract

The method of vibrational spectroscopy has been applied as a new tool for the biodiagnostics of polymer implants and tissue surfaces. In this study the spectral analysis of polymer implants has been accomplished by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) to elucidate the long-term biocompatibility and quality control of biomedical materials. Surface analysis allows the determination of the specific molecular composition and structures most appropriate for long-term compatibility in humans. Important information associated with the bioinertness or bioactivity of implants has been obtained from the spectral features of the polymer material used, including the level of polymerization. Passivated surfaces of implants have also been obtained and analyzed by means of FTIR.