The influence of the plasma modification on properties of PCL films as corneal implants

The purpose of this research is the study the influence of the plasma modification on PCL films properties and the influence PCL films implantation on the morphology of the cornea in vivo experiment. The feedstock for films was obtained by dissolving PCL in the chloroform. Modification of the films was carried out using the low-temperature plasma. Studies were performed on 4 pubescent female Sylvilagus bachmani rabbits. The PCL films were implanted into the cornea of one animal eye. Sampling (animal's eyes) was performed on day 21 after the start of the in vivo experiment for morphology studying. Results showed that the plasma modification increases a roughness (1.5 times) of PCL films, the hydrophilicity of films, reducing the contact angle of the inner side by 9 degrees-10 degrees (12%-14%), and increases the surface energy values mainly due to the polar component to 20.6 +/- 0.3 mJ/m(2). The implantation of the PLA films contributes to the development of the inflammatory response as a result of the surgery and implantation of the polymer material. The study showed the possibility of the plasma-modified PLA films using as a corneal implant in the future.