Impact on the thrombogenicity of surface oxide properties of 316l stainless steel for biomedical applications

Surface oxide film on cardiovascular devices could be one of the most critical factors that determine the degree of thrombosis. Previous studies have shown that metallic wire passivated with amorphous oxide film provides excellent corrosion and scratch resistance. Investigation was undertaken to see whether this oxide film, with its unique electrochemical properties, could reduce the development of thrombosis. Results show that amorphous oxide has higher value of time constant, lower open-circuit poten-tial, and lower degree of thrombosis. These distinguished characteristics prove amorphous oxide to be the best candidate for the cardiovascular devices. Amorphous oxide film could be a potential solution to the thrombogenic problem of cardiovascular devices. (C) 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.