Lactide
Glycolide
Lactic Acid
Glycolic Acid
Our polymers are biodegradable polyesters that undergo resorption under physiological conditions at varying rates depending on chemical characteristics of the polymer and attributes of the device. Degradation occurs via hydrolysis of the ester linkages mediated by water that is taken up from the surrounding tissue. Hydrolysis of the polymer backbone is accompanied by gradual erosion of the device. The final products are lactic acid and glycolic acid, water soluble, non-toxic products of normal metabolism, that are either excreted or further metabolized to carbon dioxide and water.
Degradation Scheme
