FAQs
Q: What is PTFE and why is it used for many catheter or medical applications?
A: PTFE is a synthetic fluoropolymer, well known due to the DuPont brand name, Teflon. PTFE has a very low coefficient of friction and high resistance to chemicals. However, it exhibits kink memory and a high incidence of thrombosis, making it unsuitable for long-term applications. PTFE is used in catheters because it has good lubricity, biocompatibility and chemical-resistance properties. PTFE is used in a variety of situations including diagnostic, guiding, suction, electrophysiology and neuroradiology. Additionally, they are used as stent delivery systems and transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMR).
