PVC for the medical sector

The use of PVC compounds in device manufacture over the last 50 years has demonstrated its great ability to satisfy the demanding requirements of the health care industry.

PVC began to dominate the market when single use pre-sterilised components became the preferred option, replacing rubber and glass.

Today it is the most widely used thermoplastic material for medical devices because it is safe, chemically stable and inert. It is also extremely versatile and easily fabricated. Medical products made from PVC are usable inside the body, easy to sterilise and simple to assemble into products that do not crack or leak.

Medical applications made from, or containing PVC, include:

• containers for blood, urine continence and ostomy products

• containers for intravenous solution giving sets

• heart and lung bypass sets

• catheters and cannulae

• tubing for dialysis, endotracheal, feeding and pressure monitoring

• surgical and examination gloves

• inflatable splints

• inhalation masks

• blister packs for pills and tablets