Patent ID: 8865788
Filing Date: 2014-10-21
Classification: A61F,A61L,B29C,B29K,B29L,C08F,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A process for preparing a medical implant having an improved balance of wear properties and oxidation resistance comprising the steps of: irradiating a fabricated article comprising ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene to form free radicals in the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), wherein the UHMWPE was heated above the melting point prior to irradiation; heating the irradiated fabricated article in a substantially oxygen-free atmosphere to 150° C. or above, for a time sufficient to recombine substantially all of the free radicals and cross-link the ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene; cooling the cross-linked fabricated article while maintaining a substantially oxygen-free atmosphere; forming a medical implant from the cross-linked fabricated article; and sterilizing the implant using standard means.