Revolutionising Cardiovascular Health: Monitoring the Surface Metallurgy of Stents

In a significant stride forward for cardiovascular healthcare, Hiden Analytical Ltd proudly introduces a surface measurement technique pivotal for devices crucial in treating heart conditions. Leveraging the highly sensitive surface analysis technology, Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (SIMS), Hiden Analytical is establishing new benchmarks in the safety, effectiveness, and innovation of stent technology.

Surgical stents, wireframe scaffolds typically crafted from stainless steel via laser cutting, play a pivotal role in maintaining narrowed arteries open, ensuring unobstructed blood flow through the body's vital pathways. The insertion of these stents through a catheter, followed by expansion using a small balloon, constitutes a life-saving procedure for numerous patients worldwide. However, the performance and durability of these stents hinge significantly on their surface quality.

Acknowledging the criticality of the stent's surface, Hiden Analytical harnesses SIMS to scrutinise the nanometre-thin protective chromium dioxide layer that naturally develops on the material. Through meticulous analysis employing caesium ion bombardment, it has been revealed how certain disinfection treatments can render the stent's surface rich in iron, rendering it susceptible to corrosion—a condition that could precipitate stent failure, rejection by the body, and tissue damage.

The unparalleled limit of detection (LOD) offered by SIMS—capable of identifying substances at ppm and even ppb levels—and atomic layer depth resolution, establishes a new standard in characterising medical implants. This sensitivity, coupled with techniques to enhance analyte volume, facilitates optimised analysis, striking a balance between lateral and depth resolutions to focus on the most critical facets of stent performance.

Dr. Graham Cooke notes, "SIMS provides a swift and dependable measurement of near-surface chemistry and corrosion behaviour, offering reassuring insights into life-saving medical products."

For further details on our groundbreaking analytical technology and its transformative impact on medical implant surface technology, please visit our website or reach out to our media relations team.

About Hiden Analytical
A pioneer in mass spectrometry since its inception, Hiden Analytical remains at the forefront of the field. Committed to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, the company continues to set industry standards, ensuring its customers have access to the finest analytical solutions available.

For more information on Revolutionising Cardiovascular Health: Monitoring the Surface Metallurgy of Stents talk to Hiden Analytical Ltd