Autooxidative Degradation of Implanted Polyether Polyurethane Devices

Abstract

While certain polyether polyurethanes have been shown to be biostable, undesirable interactions between polymer, the body environment and device can occur. For example, the corrosion products of metallic parts can cause relatively rapid autooxidation of polyether soft segments. This phenomenon was first demonstrated in our laboratories by immersing polyurethane test specimens in metal ion solutions of different oxidation potentials. Subsequently, the mechanism was reasonably duplicated by immersing Pellethane 2363-80A insulated cardiac pacing leads in 3%, 37°C hydrogen peroxide. In vivo studies after 1 year show that corrosion products from pure Co and Fe produce the most rapid degradation of the polyurethane.