ABSTRACT
Minimizing friction between a medical device and the surrounding tissue is a major design consideration. The extent to which hydrophilic coatings can reduce the coefficient of friction on the surface of a device is so dramatic, the term frictionless coating is commonly used to describe them. Fabrication techniques available for the manufacture of contact lenses include cast molding, double-sided lathing, melt pressing, and spin casting techniques. Less invasive procedures such as percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty (PTCA) have become extremely popular methods for treating clogged or obstructed veins and arteries. Methods for administering drugs systemically are quite common and include the use of controlled and sustained release delivery systems, such as coated tablets, transdermal patches, implanted devices, and orally administered osmotic pumps. Applications for tissue replacement include vascular grafts, ocular lens implants (used in treating patients with cataracts), expanders used to prevent eye deformities, and tendon replacement.
