Biomaterial-Based Implants: A Medical Device to Reconstruct the Biological Structure

Abstract

Biodegradable polymers have great feasibility in encapsulating the drugs for controlled drug delivery, like implants and a wide range of biomedical applications. The application and use of these polymers have seen steady growth. Natural polymers are the first biodegradable biomaterials that are well established in many of the biomedical uses. These natural polymers undergo enzymatic degradation. In the late 1980s, the use of synthetic polymers has started. In the field of medicine, biodegradable synthetic polymers are broadly used as surgical aids like nerve guided tubes, reabsorbable sutures, hemostats, and orthopedic implants. However, the application of synthetic polymers is still in the beginning stage which is expected to be expanded in other clinical applications. Nonmedical applications of biodegradable polymers include food packaging. Owing to their unique properties and ease of modification to achieve the desired properties, biodegradable polymers are capable of reducing the use of metals, alloys, and ceramics as biomaterials. The research on biodegradable polymers has created novel polymeric materials and formulations that lead to the development of biomaterials for various medical applications. For instance, 126cardiovascular stents are now made of metals, although a few months of lumen support may be necessary to retain vessel potency. A biodegradable stent is designed to function for a specific duration by providing adequate support that solves restenosis complications. Alternatively, in crucial circumstances, a smart stent releases antirestenosis agents contained in the polymeric matrix to the neighboring tissues to restore its stability. Biodegradable polymers are favorable for biomedical applications such as scaffolds, gene carriers, controlled drug delivery, implants, in a few medical devices, etc.