Healthcare
From medical devices to pharmaceuticals, silicones provide protection, comfort and well-being
Silicones have long been recognised by the medical world as efficient, versatile and biocompatible materials for use in:
Because our body doesn't react strongly to the presence of silicones, they facilitate healing and reduce discomfort. This makes silicones an integral part of innovative treatments and care.
Of course, the safety of silicones materials for use in medical and other healthcare applications is supported by extensive laboratory testing.
In medical care
Tubing
Silicone does not host bacteria and is easily sterilised, so silicone tubing protects individuals from infection. Medical professionals use tubing in intravenous drug delivery systems, laboratory research and heart pacemakers.
Topical medication and lubricants
Silicones soften and smooth lotions and creams so that they can be applied without leaving a greasy residue, and also to seal the skin to protect wounds from further injury. Silicone enhanced lubricants ease the insertion of needles and devices.
Respirators
Silicone is preferred in respirators for its comfort, flexibility and ease of cleaning. Just as important, silicone is a good alternative to allergic agents such as latex. Transparent silicone material provides excellent respirator bag re-expansion and is resistant to extreme temperatures. The superior feel of lung compliance helps reduce risk of over-inflation.
In dental care
Dentists use silicone-enhanced impression moulds for bridge and crown reconstruction. The biological inertness allows for an accurate replication of teeth and gum lines.
In infant care
Silicones, with their strength and resilience, are an excellent additive to baby products. Silicones are used in baby bottle nipples, breast pumps, sippy cup valves and pacifiers. Durability, tear-resistance and flexibility are among silicones' most important properties when added to infant care applications.
In pharmaceuticals
Silicones are being used for digestive tract ailments, as a coating on pills to protect the active substances against harmful environmental influences. They are also being used in patches for transdermal drug delivery.
In the treatment of wounds
Silicones facilitate healing and reduce discomfort. They are used in non-adherent dressings, burn treatment gauzes, cavity wound dressings, reduction of scars, burn masks and pressure sore cushions.
In prosthetics
Silicones can most closely approximate the consistency of skin and offer exceptional cushioning and comfort. Shape retention coupled with first-rate cushioning and durability makes silicones a strong choice for durable prosthetics. Silicones also resist bacterial growth and can be moulded to a cushioning shape.
Explore the use of silicones as efficient, versatile and biocompatible material in healthcare.