Blood compatible polymers in intensive care units: state of the art and current aspects of biomaterials research.

Abstract

The use of artificial organs in cases of acute renal failure, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and multiorgan dysfunction syndrome (MODS) has lead to a significant reduction of mortality. However, the interaction between body and biomaterials results in the activation of the coagulation system and in the induction of systemic inflammatory response syndrome. The necessary anticoagulation may be contraindicated and may even further increase the risk for the patient. This article evaluates the currently applied polymeric materials used in intensive care units (ICU) and gives a possible outlook into future developments. It is emphasized that systematic interdisciplinary research of physicians and biomaterial scientists is essential for the successful development of new polymers with improved biocompatibility. For this purpose a brief overview of analytical techniques for surface characterization is given, and future developments to a fully biocompatible polymer are described.

• Authors: M Ragaller, C Werner, J Bleyl, S Adam, H J Jacobasch, D M Albrecht
• Journal: Kidney international. Supplement (Kidney Int Suppl) Vol. 64 Pg. S84-90 (Feb 1998) ISSN: 0098-6577 [Print] United States
• PMID: 9475497 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Biocompatible Materials
• Polymers

Topics

• Artificial Organs (standards)
• Biocompatible Materials (adverse effects, chemistry, standards)
• Blood Coagulation (drug effects)
• Clinical Trials as Topic
• Humans
• Intensive Care Units
• Polymers (chemistry, standards)
• Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (chemically induced)