Silicone oil, thanks to its chemical stability, biocompatibility, and unique physical properties, plays an irreplaceable role in the medical device industry.
In invasive medical devices, silicone oil is often used as a lubricant. For devices inserted into the human body, such as urinary catheters and gastroscopic catheters, coating the surface with silicone oil significantly reduces the coefficient of friction, minimizing damage to mucosal tissue during insertion and reducing patient discomfort. This lubrication also extends the life of the device and reduces wear caused by repeated insertion and removal.
For sealing and protection, silicone oil's inertness makes it an ideal sealing material. In places like infusion set connectors and syringe plungers, silicone oil forms a stable seal, preventing fluid leakage and air ingress, ensuring safe medical procedures. Furthermore, silicone oil's anti-aging and high-temperature resistance protect the internal components of delicate medical instruments from environmental influences.
Silicone oil is even more widely used in functional medical devices. Silicone oil used in ophthalmic surgery can temporarily fill the vitreous cavity and help reattach the retina. The moving parts of artificial heart valves use silicone oil as a medium, ensuring flexible opening and closing. Even in prosthetic joints, silicone oil can mimic the lubricating effect of human synovial fluid, enhancing the smoothness of prosthetic movement.
With the advancement of medical technology, the application of silicone oil in minimally invasive instruments and implantable devices continues to expand. Its balance of biosafety and functionality makes it an indispensable key material in the development of modern medical devices.