Characterization and Evaluation of Springy Polypropylene as a Prosthetic Device.

摘要

Springy polypropylene (SPP) is a material which mechanically imitates many of the cardiovascular system components much more closely than polymers now in use. Both dynamic and static loading measurements have been made of the mechanical properties of SPP, e.g.,extension,recovery,hysteresis,and stress relaxation for dry and wet testing at ambient temperatures and for sterilizing by autoclave. No adverse effects are caused by these conditioning treatments. The complex dynamic mechanical behavior coupled with high resistance to fatigue and abrasion further indicate the utility of SPP as a candidate material for prosthetic applications. Comprehensive in vivo and in vitro testing has provided strong evidence of the tissue compatibility of SPP. The excellent fatigue behavior of SPP suggests its use as a structural reinforcement member in heart valves. The stress-strain match of exercised SPP with natural tissue compliance suggests its use as a cardiovascular repair material. Blood compatibility could be imparted by a variety of surface modifications.