When applied to surgical instruments, Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating dramatically increases the life of the instrument. Because DLC-coated instruments are incredibly
durable and resistant to wear from chemicals, moisture and atmospheric
conditions, they have a much greater useful lifespan. According
to the
manufacturer, pure DLC coatings as thin a 2-3μm can increase the
lifespan of a pair of Vannas scissors more than 100 times that of its
uncoated counterpart.
DLC is a revolutionary new coating that is being tested in a variety of
industries. For example, when engine parts are coated, the DLC reduces friction and corrosion, increasing the life of the
engine. In a completely different industry, DLC coating is being tested on metal heart valves. The coating is non-toxic, and it is so slick that biological
material isn't likely to stick to it. Additionally, valves coated with
pure DLC will last longer that their recipients, more than a hundred
years.
What is it?
Natural
diamonds are found in two different crystalline structures. The most
common is a cubic lattice structure, and the rare form is a hexagonal
lattice called lonsdaleite. DLC combines both forms of natural diamonds
in a random pattern that gives a flexible, amorphous surface to the
coating. While the
surface of DLC is very smooth and highly reflective, under a microscope it looks like a cobblestone path. The random
alterations
of DLC between the cubic and hexagonal lattice structures of natural
diamonds creates the unusual surface. DLC coating, in its pure form, is at least as hard as
diamond and slicker than Teflon.
Seven different forms of DLC are available. The purest form is the most expensive, but it is also the hardest, slickest and strongest form. It is called tetrahedral amorphous carbon (ta-C).
Properties of DLC
This amorphous, non-crystalline nature of DLC means it has no natural fracture
planes, making DLC extremely strong. With positive reviews from the FDA, DLC
coating is non-toxic and safe for biological applications. It is biologically compatible, chemically
inert, optically transparent and resistant to wear.
Ideal Coating for Instruments
While you can imagine a variety of uses from drill bits to artificial heart pumps, DLC coating is ideal
for surgical instruments.The hardness of the coated surface resists wear and increases the life of the cutting edge. The anti-reflective coating resists glare, giving a better view of the surgical field. Additionally, DLC is corrosion-resistant. One of the hidden benefits is for patients. The reduced friction at the cutting site decreases necrosis of surrounding tissue and bone, promising a speedier recovery.
WPI carries a special line of DLC coated instruments, including Micro Scissors (WPI #503365 and 503364 ).
For further study, see:
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