We are living in the technological age, where the application of many different technologies is quite common in the medical field too.
Guidewire coating technology is also one of the new technologies developed by medical researchers in close collaboration with technological experts in the field.
This new technology can make it quite flexible to access the route via our vascular and anatomical paths, and as a result, doctors can easily access the ailments of our hearts.
Hydromer, Inc. has been working in the field of guidewire coatings since 1980 and made a lot of innovations to create solutions for doctors and medical professionals.
What is hydrophilic guidewire coating?
The hydrophilic guidewire works well because of its special coating that attracts and holds onto moisture. When it touches bodily fluids like blood, this coating is slippery on the guidewire.
This reduces friction and helps the guidewire move smoothly and easily through blood vessels, making it simpler and more accurate for doctors to guide it.
Types of coatings
There are several types of coatings used in guidewire technology, however, we will discuss briefly on the following two types each designed to address specific needs:
1) Hydrophilic coatings
This type of coatings is quite thin and one can easily see through such coatings. This type of coatings generally last longer for any kind of application.
Common applications involve creating water-wetting surfaces that attract liquids to specific areas. These materials can be applied using various liquid-phase methods. A self-assembling procedure promises dependable and even treatment each time.
2) Hydrophobic coatings
Repellent technologies for guidewires create durable, long-lasting hydrophobic and oleophobic surfaces. Water contact angles typically range from 115° to 120°, while oil contact angles range from 75° to 85°.
These nanoscale treatments, within 4 nm, are optically clear and visually unchanged. Applied through various liquid-phase methods, a self-assembling process ensures uniform and consistent results.
Key Advantages of Guidewire Coating Technology:
- Enhanced navigability: Coatings make the guidewire slide more easily by reducing friction with the walls of blood vessels or other parts of the body.
This helps it move smoothly through complicated paths. This is especially important in procedures involving intricate or tortuous routes.
- Reduced trauma: Coatings make the guidewire smoother and slide more easily, which helps protect blood vessels and other tissues from getting hurt. This reduces the chance of problems and damage during the procedure.
- Improved visibility: Some coatings, especially metallic ones, make guidewires easier to see in X-rays or other scans. This helps doctors place and monitor the guidewire accurately during procedures.
- Durability and longevity: Coatings help protect the guidewire from getting damaged and worn out, which makes it last longer and work better over time. This is important for getting reliable results in medical procedures.
- Biocompatibility: To prevent any irritation or allergic reaction, these coatings are so developed that they do not harm our body or cause any problems.
Conclusion
Guidewire coating technology is really important in medical procedures because it makes guidewires easier to move, safer to use, and more effective.
Ongoing advancements in coating materials improve guidewire performance, leading to better patient outcomes in complex procedures.
Future innovations promise further enhancements, advancing medical technology and improving guidewire systems.
