Method for Inhibiting Platelet Interaction with Biomaterial Surfaces

Abstract

A method for passivating a biomaterial surface includes modifying proteinaceous material disposed at the biomaterial surface. The passivation may be effectuated by exposing the biomaterial surface to therapeutic electrical energy in the presence of blood or plasma.

1 . A method for passivating a biomaterial surface, said method comprising obtaining a qualitatively modified fibrinogen at said biomaterial surface. 
     
     
         2 . A method as in  claim 1  wherein said qualitatively modified fibrinogen includes an increased level of β-chain fibrinogen. 
     
     
         3 . A method as in  claim 1  wherein said qualitatively modified fibrinogen includes a decreased level of α-chain and γ-chain fibrinogen. 
     
     
         4 . A method as in  claim 1  wherein said biomaterial surface is a portion of a medical article. 
     
     
         5 . A passivated biomaterial surface including a qualitatively modified fibrinogen. 
     
     
         6 . A passivated biomaterial surface as in  claim 5  wherein said biomaterial surface has an electrical resistivity of less than about 5 ohms. 
     
     
         7 . A passivated biomaterial surface as in  claim 6  wherein said biomaterial surface is selected from pyrolytic carbon, titanium, nitinol, stainless steel, platinum, or iridium.