What is a polymer marker band?
A polymer marker band is generally a highly loaded tungsten-filled thermoplastic polymer that can be created in multiple in sizes and wall thicknesses. It is typically heat bonded to a catheter shaft to provide a high level of visibility under fluoroscopy (radiopacity). This allows surgeons to precisely locate the catheter within the body.
Why would you choose Putnam’s marker band technology over others?
Traditional marker bands are made from gold or platinum, and mounted through a swaging or crimping process. Although these processes have improved, the risk remains for the marker band to fall off.
Putnam Plastics polymer marker bands are made from tungsten-filled thermoplastics and form a molecular bond with the catheter shaft. This design eliminates the risk of a marker band separating from the catheter shaft. Our marker bands can be customized to meet your material and dimensional requirements.
What materials are Putnam marker bands typically comprised of and why?
Putnam’s marker bands are made from tungsten-filled polymers, such as nylons, Pebax, and polyurethanes. We customize the bands using the same polymer specified for the catheter shaft to allow heat bonding of the band for a more secure assembly. Tungsten loadings range from 65% to 80% by weight to meet radiopacity requirements.
What are typical marker band dimensions?
Putnam Plastics offers polymer marker bands with inside diameters ranging from 0.014 inches (0.356mm) to 0.200 inches (5.080mm) and wall thicknesses ranging from 0.002 inches (0.051mm) to 0.030 inches (0.762mm).
What medical devices, body parts or procedures are radiopaque marker bands commonly used in?
Putnam Plastic marker bands can be used in any application requiring the locating of the part under fluoroscopy. Talking with a Putnam sales representative is the best way to discuss how our medical device manufacturing expertise can be put to work for you.
What ISO certification is Putnam equipped to comply with?
Our manufacturing facilities are ISO 13485:2016 certified.
Why is Putnam the best choice for marker bands?
Putnam’s marker bands are different
Our marker bands are customized using the same polymer specified for the catheter shaft to allow heat bonding of the band for a more secure assembly — without the additional expensive manufacturing processes the traditional style of radiopaque marker bands require.
With decades of experience in plastics, Putnam provides trusted expertise in tubing technology. Our quality assurance system and stringent standards means you can be assured of top-notch medical device components. Talk with a Putnam engineer or sales representative about your medical device specifications to find out more.
