Bio-packaged transponder MEMS implanted in rats

J Biomater Sci Polym Ed. 2013;24(1):31-44. doi: 10.1163/156856211X621097. Epub 2012 May 11.

Abstract

A novel hydroxyapatite-based hybrid material with controlled porosity was designed as a bio-package to implant micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) in living organisms. The biomaterial was prepared using synthetic stoichiometric hydroxyapatite powder reacted with a chemical-active, solvent-free, alkyd-based polyurethane. This porous material has interconnected pores with sizes between 100 and 350 μm and a pore volume fraction of 50%, fulfilling the requirements for implants. The biomaterial additionally has high wearing resistance and hydrolytic stability providing high endurance properties. The bio-package was characterized mechanically and morphologically using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, densitometry, abrasion and mechanical tests. Twelve packaged micro-electro-mechanical systems were implanted subcutaneously into rats and tested for up to 9 months with good acceptance as revealed by the histological analysis performed on the soft tissue surrounding each implant.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry*
  • Durapatite / chemistry*
  • Elastic Modulus
  • Female
  • Micro-Electrical-Mechanical Systems*
  • Polyurethanes / chemistry
  • Porosity
  • Prostheses and Implants*
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared
  • X-Ray Diffraction

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polyurethanes
  • Durapatite