New Plasma Process for Surface Treatment of Implants

The medical device industry has long sought surface modification solutions that will improve cell growth and proliferation on titanium, polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and polymer artificial implants. In some cases, plasma sprays are applied. However, within the industry there is concern that small particles of the coating could be released into the surrounding tissue. Radiofrequency (RF) plasma is another alternative, but the process generates quite a bit of heat — a distinct disadvantage when processing polymer implants.