Abstract: Provided is an implant for sternum replacement including an upper face, a posterior face, extensions for fitting with the ribs and extensions for fitting with the manubrium, wherein that implant is manufactured in a single piece with high performance engineering polymers, with an anatomical adjustment tailored to each patient, which guarantees the reduction of the number of elements in contact with the patient, facilitating and speeding up the surgical procedure, at the same time, the required mechanical and flexibility properties, are guaranteed.

Abstract: Provided is an implant for sternum replacement including an upper face, a posterior face, extensions for fitting with the ribs and extensions for fitting with the manubrium, wherein that implant is manufactured in a single piece with high performance engineering polymers, with an anatomical adjustment tailored to each patient, which guarantees the reduction of the number of elements in contact with the patient, facilitating and speeding up the surgical procedure, at the same time, the required mechanical and flexibility properties, are guaranteed.

Abstract: Provided herein is a method of reducing a microbial infection of a heparinized surface wherein heparin precipitation is reduced as compared to a control. In some embodiments a composition comprising ethanol and isopropanol is applied to the surface. In other embodiments, two or more ethanol compositions are applied and removed sequentially from the surface prior to contacting the surface with a biological fluid, tissue or vessel, wherein the composition in each successive administration comprises an increased amount of ethanol. Also provided is a method of reducing a microbial infection of a surface comprising applying a mucilage extract from an Opuntia ficus indica species to the surface.

Abstract: Provided herein is a method of reducing a microbial infection of a heparinized surface wherein heparin precipitation is reduced as compared to a control. In some embodiments a composition comprising ethanol and isopropanol is applied to the surface. In other embodiments, two or more ethanol compositions are applied and removed sequentially from the surface prior to contacting the surface with a biological fluid, tissue or vessel, wherein the composition in each successive administration comprises an increased amount of ethanol. Also provided is a method of reducing a microbial infection of a surface comprising applying a mucilage extract from an Opuntia ficus indica species to the surface.

Abstract: Provided herein is a method of reducing a microbial infection of a heparinized surface wherein heparin precipitation is reduced as compared to a control. In some embodiments a composition comprising ethanol and isopropanol is applied to the surface. In other embodiments, two or more ethanol compositions are applied and removed sequentially from the surface prior to contacting the surface with a biological fluid, tissue or vessel, wherein the composition in each successive administration comprises an increased amount of ethanol. Also provided is a method of reducing a microbial infection of a surface comprising applying a mucilage extract from an Opuntia ficus indica species to the surface.