Radial Force

Radial force testing is used to determine the stiffness (hoop strength) of a medical device when placed under radial compressive forces, both loading and unloading. Devices that are commonly tested include balloons, stents, stent grafts, and feminine hygiene products, among other devices that are required to apply a chronic outward force. The importance of radial force testing in the medical device development process is perhaps best illustrated with an example. The following case study shows the importance of radial force in the functionality of a self-expandable stent.