The 'invisible contribution' of silicone oil in the medical field: from implant materials to drug carriers
Silicone oil is widely used in the medical field due to its biocompatibility and chemical stability. As an ophthalmic surgical filler, its viscosity can match intraocular pressure to prevent retinal detachment; As a catheter lubricant, it can reduce patient pain; As a drug carrier, the efficacy can be improved through controlled release technology. For example, Novartis has developed silicone oil microspheres that can extend the release period of anticancer drugs to 30 days.
Technological innovation drives the upgrade of medical grade silicone oil. The antibacterial silicone oil developed by 3M company inhibits infection by releasing silver ions; CorneaGen in the United States uses 3D printing technology to customize the production of silicone oil scaffolds for corneal reshaping. These products are reshaping the medical materials market landscape.