Structural alterations of p(HEMA)--collagen implants.

Samples of linear (additionally crosslinked) p(HEMA) with different amounts of fibrillar collagen were implanted into the popliteal region of rats. After 3 month, the implanted materials were harvested and examined by SEM. The implants underwent marked structural or morphological changes.

Silicone rubber-hydrogel composites as polymeric biomaterials. I. Biological properties of the silicone rubber-p(HEMA) composite.

A composite material was prepared consisting of silicone rubber matrix and particulate lightly cross-linked poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (p(HEMA] hydrogel. The material resembling common silicone rubber is hydrophilic and swells in water like hydrogels. The effects of the implanted composite on tissues of the living organism were tested in rats by methods assessing local acute and chronic inflammatory reactions and calcification by means of radioactive indicators and by histological examination.