Biocompatible disadvantages and modern modifications of medical silicone rubber / 国际生物医学工程杂志

ABSTRACT

Silicone rubber with advantages of stable performance, easy-shaping, considerable product bene- fits, has been widely used in biomedical engineering field and health care industries. Nevertheless, the application of silicone rubber in biomedicine is still challenged by its inherent shortcomings. In biocompatibility aspects, disad- vantages of silicone rubber products need to be overcome, including.'hydrophobic surface, poor imaging compatibili- ty, and occurrence of calcification after long-term implantation in body. Experts from all over the world have been studying on means of modifications over the past few years and the researches mainly focus on increasing the surface wettability, enhancing the function of X-ray resistance, and anti-calcification pre-treating. Although initial results are encouraging, biocompatibility of medical silicone rubber is not yet satisfactory.