Chapter 14 - Nanobionics and nanoengineered prosthetics

Abstract

Since the emergence of nanotechnology, the utilization of nanocarriers in drug delivery systems has been the main concern of researchers and pharmaceutical developers. One of the most interesting drug delivery systems is the implantable delivery system. Implants are introduced into the body for a number of reasons; many implants are prosthetics, intended to replace missing body parts, while other implants are used to monitor bodily functions, provide an anchor for organs and tissues and, most importantly, deliver drugs. Here, we focus on the use of medical implants as drug delivery systems and as prosthetics. Implantable drug delivery systems are highly beneficial for patients who suffer from metabolic disorder, chronic pain, and malignant tumors. As they provide localized medication delivery, accurate dose, and ideal drug release rate that can be easily controlled, implants greatly enhance the patients’ quality of life. The use of nanoparticles in implantable delivery systems and prosthetics has improved their action and prevented a number of problems, including dislocation of the implant or infections around the site of the prosthetic. Nanoparticles are ideal for engineering prosthetics and implants because they function at the same level of the body cells. In this chapter, we focus on the impact of nanotechnology on medical bionic devices. We discuss the engineering and manufacture of prosthetics, their uses and applications, and recent advances in this field.