[Effect of radiation sterilization on biomaterial structure and properties].

The purpose of the investigation was the study of structural changes connective tissue biomaterials after different combinations of their radiation sterilization, physico-chemical treatment and conservation. Using a complex of histological methods (polarization microscopy of unstained sections, van Gieson's stain, scanning electron microscopy), an analysis was performed to detect the structural changes in tendons and dermis which underwent various physico-chemical treatment and subjected to the radiation sterilization using different types (3- radiation and fast-moving electron stream) and doses (1.5, 2.5 and 4 Mrad) of radiation. The dependence of the structural changes in the biomaterials on the fibroarchitectonics of the tissue as well as on the physico-chemical treatment and radiation type and dose was demonstrated. The tendons underwent clear-cut significant changes in all regimes and radiation doses studied. Dermis was found to be most resistant to radiation challenge.