Laser micromachining of next-generation implantable medical devices

Santa Clara, CA - Palmaz Scientific, Spectra-Physics, and Innovative Laser Technologies (ILT) have demonstrated femtosecond laser micromachining of next-generation implantable medical devices. With Spectra-Physics' femtosecond lasers and ILT's precision machining systems, Palmaz Scientific has demonstrated the fabrication of leading-edge implantable stents with extremely fine and advanced surface nanotechnologies for exceptional biocompatibility.

Palmaz, which has a long history of pursuing the research and development of advanced metallurgical surface nanotechnologies for the manufacture of implantable medical devices, worked closely with ILT, a supplier of custom and standard laser systems for development and production using laser technology, and Spectra-Physics, a manufacturer of lasers for demanding applications in microelectronics and industrial manufacturing, to jointly develop a customized system to take advantage of Palmaz's proprietary and disruptive technologies. The new laser system has successfully demonstrated the capability of holding the precise tolerances necessary for these very fine structures.

Palmaz Scientific fabricated the next-generation implantable stents using ILT's VersaSTC system with a Spectra-Physics Spirit industrial femtosecond laser. The ILT VersaSTC system was developed for precision laser processing of small tubes (under 25 mm diameter) utilizing ILT's HMI2200 System Controller. The Spectra-Physics Spirit laser delivers femtosecond pulses with ideal beam characteristics and programmable repetition rates for optimal precision, cold micromachining with no heat-affected zone or collateral damage.