Did you know that TriStar leads the industry in the surface modification of catheters used in diagnostic testing and surgical procedures? Or that our plasma treatment — a “green” process that produces no harsh chemicals — dramatically improves the molecular adhesion and wettability of a catheter’s plastic components?

New technology helps one of the oldest medical devices

Catheters are flexible, hollow tubes used to create a channel for the passage of fluids from the body, or to create an entryway for the insertion of a medical device into the body. They are also one of the oldest medical devices still in use today. Available in various lengths to accommodate different medical procedures, catheters have become especially critical in the diagnosis and treatment of potentially fatal cardiac conditions.

With angiography, for instance, physicians can detect life-threatening abnormalities in the brain, heart, kidney, and other areas of the body. Here, a catheter is inserted into an artery through a small incision in the skin, where physicians can then insert imaging technology or contrast materials to view key blood vessels. Cardiologists also use specially designed balloon-tipped catheters to clear clogged arteries around the heart for the implantation of a stent.

But how do catheters — some measuring five feet long — manage to “slide” and thread throughout the narrow veins of the body with ease and flexibility?

Plasma “supercleans” and enhances biocompatibility

Major catheter suppliers look to TriStar to plasma treat — or superclean — their catheters’ polymer components before they apply a lubricious coating to the devices. By first super-cleaning the polymer, our team can alter the surface properties to improve adhesion and biocompatibility. The process also allows for better acceptance of time-released medications used during surgery and recovery.

Our team uses a plasma chamber to carefully control the gas type, flow, pressure and concentration to ensure a uniform, three-dimensional surface treatment. The process is also used to treat other medical devices including drainage tubes, endoscopes, stents, intra-ocular lenses and more.

We invite you to contact us to learn how our plasma, corona, parylene, or photolysis surface modification techniques can benefit your manufacturing process. Or join the conversation on our Tech Talk Bearing Blog for the latest industry trends and tips.