Surgical implants coated with a fibrogenic enzyme - pref. covalently bonded to a polyurethane surface on the implant

摘要

A device such as a prosthetic tubular probe for implantation in a human body is coated with a fibrogenic enzyme bonded covalently to the surface of the implant, to induce fibrous bonding to the local tissues. Pref. the coating triggers the coagulation of blood and specifically involves thrombine. Pref. the implant surface to support the coating is of polyurethane. Esp. applicable to drains installed surgically to enter the spinal cord, to avoid difficulties associated with anchorages of local internal stitching ofr clamping. The tube may be used as a guide for administering injections via a catheter needle, the tube being fitted with an external terminal adaptor complete with a conventional self sealing membrane of e.g. silicone rubber. Secure bonding of the enzyme is essential to inhibit dissipation and consequent initiation of internal embolisms elsewhere in the body.