Carbon is capable of existing in several crystalline forms, some of which possess excellent thrombo-resistance properties. Because of this, carbon is the preferred material to interface with flowing blood, and is used in a variety of applications, such as artificial heart valves and pacemaker electrodes. (Source: "Chemistry of Medical and Dental Materials" Author John W. Nicholson. 2002 Royal Society of Chemistry.)
Pure pyrocarbon implants offer advantages over polyethylene and metal implants. Pyrocarbon has an elastic modulus (the mathematical description of a substance's tendency to be deformed when a force is applied to it) that is similar to cortical bone, which reduces stress shielding and enhances biological fixation. In addition, pyrocarbon has been found to have excellent long-term biological compatibility. (Source: Elsevier Saunders, Hand Clinic 22 (2006) 183-193: Nonrheumatoid Metacarpophalangeal Joint Arthritis. Unconstrained Pyrolytic Carbon Implants: Indications, Technique and Outcomes Author W. Parker et al.)
Pyrocarbon Healthcare Facts
Millions of pyrocarbon mechanical heart valves have been implanted in the last 40 years, and have a proven 20-year history of biocompatibility in finger joint implants.
