Interaction of Blood with Biomedical Polymers — Some Basic Aspects

During the last decade tremendous efforts have been made in the development and improvement of medical devices, artificial organs and other life support systems. One of the main problems to be overcome if further progress is to be achieved consists of the need to improve the biocompatibility of materials used for the above-mentioned devices and systems. Much basic research has been carried out to understand the complex interface reactions between living systems and biomedical materials to overcome the “trial and error principle” in the development of new biocompatible materials. This chapter summarises some basic aspects of blood-polymer interaction regarding the theoretical understanding of haemocompatibility.