Evaluation of nickel release from Ni-Ti stents in various media for safety assessment purposes.

Abstract

Nickel (Ni) was an essential component of Ni-Ti alloys used in cardiovascular implants. However, the release of Ni from these alloys might pose potential health risks. This study aimed to identify a simple extraction medium for evaluating Ni release from Ni-Ti alloys and to establish safety assessment guidelines. Seven extraction media, including 0.005% HCl and goat whole blood, were tested. The Ni release was analyzed using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) and s