|
For medical devices, PURAC's Biomaterials Business Unit offers PURASORB biodegradable polymers. They function as :
- Biodegradable surgical implant materials
PURASORB polymers are used in an increasing variety of implantable medical devices with a defined temporary duration. Applications ranging from biodegradable surgical sutures to orthopaedic and other surgical implants benefit from the unique properties of these biodegradable, biocompatible and mechanically strong thermoplastic materials.
- Controlled drug delivery excipients
When used as pharmaceutical excipients in parenteral controlled drug delivery systems, PURASORB polymers provide prolonged medication with only a single administration of the product. They are preferred for their biocompatibility and controlled biodegradability
The properties of the PURASORB lactide and/ or glycolide polymers and copolymers make them the preferred materials for a variety of medical devices and pharmaceutical applications:
- Wound closure products
Polyglycolide and L-lactide/ glycolide copolymers are well-established raw materials in the manufacture of synthetic biodegradable surgical sutures, clips, staples and surgical meshes. The use of these polymers results in products that have uniform, reproducible mechanical properties and cause minimal tissue reaction, and they do not have to be removed.
- Orthopaedic implants
PURASORB lactide and glycolide homo- and copolymers are being used to manufacture implantable orthopaedic devices (e.g. screws, pins, suture anchors). These products offer the advantage of excellent biocompatibility and a defined temporary duration, thereby eliminating the need for additional removal surgery.
- Other surgical products
PURASORB polymers are being used to develop other temporary surgical products, e.g. cardiovascular stents and "plugs," and products for guided tissue regeneration such as dental membranes. The materials' excellent biocompatibility and controlled biodegradability are a distinct advantage in this area as well.
- Controlled drug delivery systems
PURASORB lactide/ glycolide polymers and copolymers are used as pharmaceutical excipients in the preparation of long-acting drug delivery systems such as implantable rods and injectable microspheres for the release of bioactive agents such as peptides or proteins. These polymers offer the advantage of proven biocompatibility and a biodegradation rate that can be varied over a wide range, from a few weeks to several months or longer.
|
