# How does MediShield™ provide both a viral barrier and comfort for surgical gowns?

> Source: https://breathablefilm.com/news/knowledge-center/medishield-viral-barrier-comfort-surgical-gowns/
> Author: kh_sales02
> Published: 2026-05-08
> Updated: 2026-08-28

## Key takeaways

- MediShield™ uses a monolithic, pore-free membrane instead of a microporous film, so there are no physical holes for viruses or blood-borne pathogens to pass through, exceeding ASTM F1671 viral penetration standards.
- Comfort comes from the membrane's hydrophilic chemistry, which acts as a molecular bridge that absorbs sweat vapor on the inside of the gown and releases it outside.
- This combination lets surgeons stay cool and dry during long procedures without sacrificing the gown's liquid-tight, viral-barrier protection.

## Frequently asked questions

### How does MediShield provide both a viral barrier and comfort for surgical gowns?

MediShield uses a monolithic, pore-free membrane instead of a microporous film, so there are no physical holes for viruses or blood-borne pathogens to pass through, exceeding ASTM F1671 viral penetration standards. Comfort comes from the membrane's hydrophilic chemistry, which acts as a molecular bridge that absorbs sweat vapor on the inside and releases it outside, keeping surgeons cool and dry during long procedures without sacrificing the gown's liquid-tight, viral-barrier protection.

### Why can't a microporous film be used for a surgical gown that needs to block viruses?

A microporous film relies on physical pores small enough to block liquid, but viruses and blood-borne pathogens can be far smaller than those pores under pressure. MediShield™ instead uses a pore-free monolithic membrane, so there is no physical opening at all for pathogens to cross, which is how it exceeds ASTM F1671 viral penetration standards.