ABSTRACT
Recently, due to their high biocompatibility, DLC coatings have been extensively researched in the context of biomedical applications. It was proven that the biological properties of DLC coatings can be tailored by the incorporation of different dopants into the carbon matrix. Depending on the element used, different biofunctionality may be achieved. The dopants preventing the bacteria adhesion include certain toxic elements, such as Ag or Cu, and allow to limit the risk of post-implantation infections. Antithrombogenic agents like Si, Ca, or P not only increase the hemocomaptibility, but also the proliferation of endothelial cells and thus, may be applied for cardiovascular implants. In the case of orthopaedic implants, it is recommended to use dopants which enhance the osseointegration process, for example Ti or Si. Summing up, the literature shows that the modification of DLC coatings may allow to obtain highly functional coatings for different medical implants.
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