Synthetic vascular graft - Teflon

• Teflon or polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) is a synthetic fluoropolymer of tertrafluoroethylene which has high-molecular-weight compound consisting wholly of carbons and fluorine.
• High conducive properties (can conduct thermal energy and the body’s electric current efficiently)
• In woven fabirc form, the teflon needs not previous clotting.

• When knitted into a porous mesh, (espended PTFE) it is highly malleable even though clotting has to be conducted before operation. 

1. woven formed
2. mostly used in reconstructive surgery
3. be able to be shaped easily and is porous ( tissue and cell can grow on it )

ePTFE graft

• For Teflon compatible as synthetic vascular graft, it must have certain charecteristics. Which are:

1. high resistance in vivo degradation
2. low thrombogenicity 
3. exceptional physical and mechanical properties
4. relative high yield and breaking points,
5. resist high tension torsion and stresses
6. fabricated to such extent that it has high elastic capacities
7. able to compress and decompress by muscular tissue and ligaments in action

• Characteristics approved by FDA for Teflon vascular graft:

1. sizes smaller than 6mm for arterial use and 6mm or larger for veins and other vacuoles [14].
2. having outer coating made of biological substance such as albumin or collagen like silicone.
3. thinner wall, this is to create a softer and better handling graft.
4. stretchable wall, also for less bleeding and better handling. Lastly is external support and function to resist compression and kinking.