Impact of Sterilization Methods on Polymer Biocompatibility
Sterilization of medical polymers often alters their physical, chemical, and structural properties, significantly affecting biocompatibility and in vivo performance. Common methods—autoclaving, gamma radiation, ethylene oxide (EtO), and H₂O₂ plasma—can cause chain scission, crosslinking, polymer degradation, or surface toxicity. Proper sterilization must balance microbial elimination with maintaining material structural integrity, surface morphology, and minimizing cytotoxic, leachable byproducts.