Modification of Surfaces to Meet Bioadhesive Design Goals: A Review

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Abstract
The modern range of medical devices presents contrasting requirements for adhesion in biological environments. Strong bioadhesion is desired in many circumstances to assure device retention and immobility. Minimal adhesion is absolutely essential in others, where thrombosis or bacterial adhesion would destroy the utility of the implants. A brief review is given of some analytical approaches, based in adhesion science, most useful in addressing these needs. Familiar correlating parameters, such as the critical surface tension, are surprisingly good in predicting bioadhesive outcomes such as tissue integration. The example of dental implants is given to illustrate this correlation. In every case, primary attention must be given to the qualities of the first interfacial conditioning films of bio-macromolecules deposited from the living systems. For instance, fibrinogen deposits from blood may assume different configurations on surfaces of different initial energies, and thus trigger different physiological events. Standard surface modification techniques, such as siliconization, when properly quality controlled can yield improved blood-compatible devices like substitute blood vessels and artificial heart sacs. Promising extensions to new areas of biotechnology are forecast.