Luminal surface fabrication for cardiovascular prostheses.
Methods to produce highly ordered, specific surface morphologies on poly-tetrafluoroethylene (PTFE Teflon) surfaces were developed. These methods included the use of photolithographic techniques for pattern definition and directed argon ion beam sputter etching to produce the desired surface morphology. Use of these techniques resulted in the formation of regular arrays of sharply defined hexagonal pillars with smooth, vertical walls with heights of up to 80 microns. Pillar height-to-width ratios ranged up to 5.2-1. Surface hole depths of up to approximately 80 microns were also obtained. These surface morphologies could have an important application in medicine for improving the patency of cardiovascular prostheses. This would be accomplished by creating a luminal surface in the implant which promotes the development of a healthy neointima lining.