Objectives: To evaluate the effects of the surface modification of 316L stainless steel (SS) by low-temperature plasma nitriding on endothelial cells for stent applications.
Results: X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed the incorporation of nitrogen into the treated steel. The surface treatment significantly increased SS roughness and hydrophilic characteristics. After 4 h the cells adhered to the nitride surfaces and formed clusters. During the 24 h incubation period, cell viability on the nitrided surface was higher compared to the polished surface. Nitriding reduced late apoptosis of rabbit aorta endothelial cell (RAEC) on the SS surface.
Conclusion: Low temperature plasma nitriding improved the biocompatible of stainless steel for use in stents.
Keywords: Biomaterial; Intravascular devices; Metal surfaces; Nitrited; Stents.