Skin is the body’s largest organ and one of its most complex. For the medical device industry, understanding the intricacies of skin is key to creating safe and effective products that adhere well without causing damage. As Allison Chula, Global Application Engineer at Solventum, explains, adhesives that bond to skin face several unique challenges due to the skin’s elasticity, moisture, and constant renewal process.
In this blog, we explore how Solventum develops medical-grade adhesive solutions that overcome these challenges and ensure safe and secure adhesion for medical devices.
1.The Complexity of Skin:
The skin acts as a barrier between our bodies and the outside world. However, this same barrier makes it difficult for adhesives to bond securely. Factors such as oils, sweat, and moisture vary by location on the body and must be considered when designing wearable medical devices.
2.Medical Adhesive Related Skin Injuries (MARSI):
MARSI can occur when adhesives are too strong or improperly applied, leading to skin stripping, tension blisters, or maceration. It’s essential to select the right adhesive for the intended wear time and skin type. By collaborating with Solventum, device manufacturers can prevent injuries and ensure optimal performance.
3.Adhesive Solutions for Different Applications:
Solventum offers a wide range of medical-grade adhesives, including silicones, acrylates, and synthetic rubbers. Each adhesive type has its own characteristics, making it suitable for different applications:
- Silicones: Best for short-term wear (3–7 days), with the ability to reposition during application.
- Acrylates: Designed for longer wear (up to 28 days) and known for their excellent adhesion as they warm and adapt to the skin.
- Synthetic Rubbers: Typically used as construction adhesives to hold device components together.
Clinical Testing for Wear Time:
At Solventum, we don’t just develop adhesives—we test them rigorously through clinical wear studies. These studies measure wear time and survivability under real-life conditions. From monitoring activities to analyzing peel and shear failure modes, our comprehensive testing ensures that our adhesives perform effectively in the field.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right adhesive for medical devices requires an understanding of the science behind skin. At Solventum, we offer a variety of solutions that balance strong adhesion with patient safety. With clinical expertise and ISO-compliant products, we’re your partner in creating safe, effective medical device adhesives.