PEBAX for Minimally Invasive Cardiovascular Surgery
In this technical post, PDC identifies the crucial link between PEBAX (Polyether Block Amide) and micro-molded solutions, whose unique properties are pivotal in minimally invasive cardiovascular surgery.
PEBAX: The Polymer of Choice: PEBAX is a thermoplastic elastomer known for its exceptional mechanical properties, including high tensile strength, flexibility, and impact resistance. Composed of alternating segments of polyether and polyamide, PEBAX offers a rare combination of rigidity and elasticity, making it an excellent candidate for medical device components subjected to dynamic loading conditions.
Biocompatibility and Bio-stability: In cardiovascular applications, biocompatibility is paramount. PEBAX’s biocompatibility has been extensively studied and validated, making it suitable for prolonged contact with bodily fluids and tissues without eliciting adverse reactions. Moreover, its bio-stability ensures long-term performance and reliability, essential attributes in life-saving medical devices.
Flexibility and Durability: Minimally invasive cardiovascular procedures demand devices that can navigate tortuous anatomical pathways with precision and ease. PEBAX’s exceptional flexibility allows for the fabrication of catheters, stent delivery systems, and other devices that can conform to the contours of blood vessels without sacrificing durability or structural integrity. This flexibility translates into enhanced maneuverability during procedures, reducing the risk of vessel trauma and improving patient outcomes.
Low Friction and Lubricity: Smooth navigation through blood vessels is essential for minimizing trauma and improving procedural success rates. PEBAX’s inherently low coefficient of friction and lubricious surface properties facilitate effortless device advancement, reducing frictional resistance and enhancing procedural efficiency. This attribute is particularly advantageous in complex interventions where precise device positioning is critical.
Radiopacity and Imaging Compatibility: Clear visualization of medical devices during procedures is essential for precise placement and monitoring. PEBAX can be formulated to incorporate radiopaque additives, ensuring excellent visibility under fluoroscopy and other imaging modalities. This radiopacity enables clinicians to accurately assess device deployment and positioning, enhancing procedural safety and efficacy.
In the ever-evolving landscape of medical device materials, PEBAX emerges as a frontrunner, offering a unique blend of properties ideally suited for minimally invasive cardiovascular surgery. Its versatility, biocompatibility, flexibility, and imaging compatibility make it indispensable for the development of next-generation medical devices aimed at improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of interventional cardiology. As PDC continues to push the boundaries of innovation in healthcare, PEBAX remains a steadfast ally, empowering clinicians to perform complex procedures with confidence and precision.
As an industry leader of injection molding Pebax, PDC currently manufactures:
- A variety of standard catheter tip sizes/shapes
- Multi durometer over-molded sub-assemblies
- Over-molding of diverse types of marker bands (as small as .014” diameter)
- Over-molding directly to polymer tubing
- May include metal collars to assist in catheter assembly
Whether your project is ultra-soft (35Sh. A) or up to a very rigid 40 Shore D with a high loading of radio opaque fillers, PDC’s tooling and molding team can demonstrate success at each phase. Think about replacing cumbersome and potentially high scrap hand assembly methods that consume precious resources. Injection molding done properly is a highly repeatable process that is scalable into the millions of components.
To begin collaborating with our engineering team on your project’s specific DFM needs, submit your PEBAX component specification or model to info@plasticdesigncompany.com.
