4.1 This guide contains a listing of those characterization parameters that are directly related to the functionality of hyaluronan. This guide can be used as an aid in the selection and characterization of the appropriate hyaluronan for a particular application. This guide is intended to give guidance in the methods and types of testing necessary to properly characterize, assess, and ensure consistency in the performance of a particular hyaluronan. It may have use in the regulation of these devices by appropriate authorities.

4.2 The hyaluronan covered by this guide may be gelled, cross-linked, extruded, or otherwise formulated into biomedical devices for use in tissue engineered medical products or drug delivery devices for implantation as determined to be appropriate, based on supporting biocompatibility and physical test data. Recommendations in this guide should not be interpreted as a guarantee of clinical success in any tissue engineered medical product or drug delivery application.

4.3 To ensure that the material supplied satisfies requirements for use in TEMPs, several general areas of characterization should be considered. These are: identity of hyaluronan, physical and chemical characterization and testing, impurities profile, and performance-related tests.