This specification covers the material characteristics of virgin poly(glycolide) and poly(glycolide-co-lactide) resins with mole fractions within the specified range used in surgical implants. This does not cover packaged and sterilized finished implants fabricated from the same materials. Since some characteristics may be altered by processing techniques when used to produces a specific part or device, properties of fabricated forms of the resins should be evaluated independently using appropriate test methods. The identity of the poly(glycolide) homopolymer, poly(glycolide-co-lactide) copolymer, and poly(glycolide-co-lactide) polymer must be confirmed through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR).

1.1 This specification covers both virgin poly(glycolide) resin and poly(glycolide-co-lactide) resin with mole fractions greater than or equal to 70 % glycolide. This specification is not applicable to glycolide:lactide copolymers with mole fractions exceeding 30 % lactide.

1.2 Since poly(glycolide) is commonly abbreviated as PGA for poly(glycolic acid) and poly(lactide) is commonly abbreviated as PLA for poly(lactic acid), these polymers are commonly referred to as PGA and PLA:PGA resins for the hydrolytic byproducts to which they respectively degrade.

1.3 This specification addresses material characteristics of both virgin poly(glycolide) and poly(>70 % glycolide-co-lactide) resins intended for use in surgical implants and does not apply to packaged and sterilized finished implants fabricated from these materials.

1.4 As with any material, some characteristics may be altered by processing techniques (such as molding, extrusion, machining, assembly, sterilization, and so forth) required for the production of a specific part or device. Therefore, properties of fabricated forms of this resin should be evaluated independently using appropriate test methods to ensure safety and efficacy.

1.5 The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as standard. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.6 This standard may suggest use of hazardous materials, operations, and equipment. This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.