Tuning Cell Adhesion on PTFE Surfaces by Laser Induced Microstructures

Cell adhesion plays an important role for the biocompatibility and biological performance of medical implants. Depending on where the biomaterial is implanted, cell adhesion may or may not have a positive impact on its biological performance. Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a widely used biomaterial for vascular prostheses because of its outstanding biological performance, especially when in contact with blood. However, PTFE and certain other polymer biomaterials fail in contact with connective tissue. Therefore, the aim of this work was to improve the performance of PTFE surfaces for the adhesion of living cells without changing the distinct chemical properties of the material. The objectives were achieved by laser ablation of the PTFE surface and the creation of a well-defined micro topography without modification of the chemical composition of the surface.