Plasma deposition for biomedical applications: a brief review.

Radio frequency plasma-deposited thin films offer an advantageous mechanism to alter the surface properties of biomaterials and medical devices without affecting the mechanical properties or primary fabrication. Such coatings are tightly adherent, conformal, and easily applied. They also exhibit excellent biocompatibility qualities. Examples are presented of four different thin film plasma treatments that show promise for reducing the platelet reactivity of materials, enhancing their ability to grow cells, preventing protein pickup by surfaces, and improving the biocompatibility of ophthalmic devices.