Iranian Journal of Surgery

Polyurethanes and their application in cardiovascular surgery- areview

Document Type : Review Article

Authors

SM Mirmohammadi
M Movahedi
R Yarahmadian

Postdoctoral researcher, Department of Biomaterial Medical Engineering, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract
Polyurethanes are a broad family of polymers. These materials have a significant position in the medical
industry. The use of polyurethanes is unlimited. But it should be kept in mind that polyurethanes are actually
the best materials for producing devices for specific applications (Figure 1). Accordingly, we provide an
overview of some applications, which may not be exhaustive, but focus on specific processes, debatable
results, and potential for future developments.
Cardiac surgeons' equipment shows no significant role for polyurethanes in intra-aortic balloons, blood
bags for ventricular assist devices (VADs), catheters, and pacemaker leads as the most important. The results
of testing polyurethanes as blood vessels are not yet complete due to the lack of long-term resistance to
degradation. Breast implants covered with PU foam are part of the scientific debate. The use of polyurethane
is limited, but these materials have interesting properties. Cardiac dressings and tissue engineering scaffolds
enable new developments.

Keywords

Polyurethane
application of polyurethane
cardiovascular surgery
surgicalequipment
tissue engineering
polymer
Iranian Journal of Surgery
Volume 33, Autumn
Autumn 2025
Pages 56-85

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