The first encounter an implanted device has within the body involves its surface. Whatever mechanical or bulk-related attributes an implant has, it is almost certainly its surface properties that trigger the body’s initial acute, response.

Consequently, the medical device industry is using surface analysis techniques on a day to day basis for regular manufacturing QC protocols, in new product development and as a troubleshooting tool.

Surface analysis techniques have been utilised to analyse numerous medical devices including: catheters, blood contact devices including filters and vascular grafts, contact and intra-ocular lenses and orthopaedic implants.