Develop Improved Encapsulation Materials for Implantation

摘要

Twenty-two complete heart-assist devices, or adnexal units, were encapsulated/ insulated in a combination of epoxy resin formulations and silicone rubber over-coatings. Leakage at a lead exit site represented a problem in one early unit, the condition being corrected by a revision of application technique. This reworked unit, and all others, have given satisfactory performance in in vitro testing and in the implant environment insofar as the encapsulation/insulation system is concerned. Characterization of epoxy-resin formulations for long-term implantable service as electrical waterproofing materials was continued. Long-term histology studies suggest that silicone rubber, Teflon and Parylene are the materials of choice for tissue compatible overcoats or tissue exposed surfaces. (Author)