Belgian researchers have developed a new plastic for medical devices that is safe, non-toxic, 3D-printable, and has been tested in human cells and rabbits. 

Every year, millions of patients receive medical implants to manage cardiovascular diseases. Most of these devices are made from polyurethane (PU), a plastic that uses toxic substances in its production and is associated with serious complications, such as blood clots and infections. 

A team of researchers and cardiologists at EARA member University of Liège has developed a promising alternative: Poly Hydroxy-Oxazolidone (PHOx). In addition to being less toxic and more sustainable to produce, this flexible plastic is compatible with 3D printing and custom moulding, making it suitable for personalised medical devices. 

Tests using human blood showed that PHOx attracted fewer clot-forming cells than PU, potentially reducing the risk of blood clots. The material also proved non-toxic to human blood vessel cells and repelled bacteria that cause implant infections.  

When the researchers tested PHOx-based implants in rabbits for one and four weeks, they observed no signs of inflammation, body rejection or material degradation over time. Compared with PU, the new material also had superior adherence and a 50% reduction of scar tissue formation. 

From tailor-made implants to heart valves adapted to the anatomy of each individual, this new, environmentally friendly material has the potential to replace PU in a wide range of medical applications. 

This study was published in the scientific journal Advanced Healthcare Materials.