In-Vitro Biocompatibility and Hemocompatibility Study of New PET Copolyesters Intended for Heart Assist Devices.

Maciej Gawlikowski,Barbara Zawidlak-Węgrzyńska,Miroslawa El Fray,Roman Kustosz,Karolina Janiczak

doi:10.3390/polym12122857

Maciej Gawlikowski, Barbara Zawidlak-Węgrzyńska + Show 3 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/polym12122857

Copy DOI

Abstract

(1) Background: The evaluation of ventricular assist devices requires the usage of biocompatible and chemically stable materials. The commonly used polyurethanes are characterized by versatile properties making them well suited for heart prostheses applications, but simultaneously they show low stability in biological environments. (2) Methods: An innovative material-copolymer of poly(ethylene-terephthalate) and dimer linoleic acid—with controlled and reproducible physico-mechanical and biological properties was developed for medical applications. Biocompatibility (cytotoxicity, surface thrombogenicity, hemolysis, and biodegradation) were evaluated. All results were compared to medical grade polyurethane currently used in the extracorporeal heart prostheses. (3) Results: No cytotoxicity was observed and no significant decrease of cells density as well as no cells growth reduction was noticed. Thrombogenicity analysis showed that the investigated copolymers have the thrombogenicity potential similar to medical grade polyurethane. No hemolysis was observed (the hemolytic index was under 2% according to ASTM 756-00 standard). These new materials revealed excellent chemical stability in simulated body fluid during 180 days aging. (4) Conclusions: The biodegradation analysis showed no changes in chemical structure, molecular weight distribution, good thermal stability, and no changes in surface morphology. Investigated copolymers revealed excellent biocompatibility and great potential as materials for blood contacting devices.

Highlights

The progress of modern medicine in the treatment of heart failure would not be possible without the development of materials engineering
Ventricular assist devices (VAD) are commonly used for the treatment of patients suffering from end-stage heart failure
The modification of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)-dimer linoleic acid (DLA) copolymers was performed with the use of small amount

Summary

Introduction

The progress of modern medicine in the treatment of heart failure would not be possible without the development of materials engineering. Ventricular assist devices (VAD) are commonly used for the treatment of patients suffering from end-stage heart failure. VADs are utilized as a bridge to heart transplant [1] or—in selected etiology of heart failure—as a bridge to heart recovery [2,3]. The most frequently used VADs’ type is the rotary blood pump; in some applications, it is better to utilize pulsating VAD [1]. From the VAD type, its construction requires the application of advanced biomaterials of high biocompatibility, good physical and mechanical strength, and wear resistance.

Methods

Results

Discussion

Conclusion