Biomaterials

In improving patient care, especially in relation with tissue loss or dysfunction, the use of proper biomaterials plays a key role. The shift from tissue removal to tissue replacement and at present, tissue regeneration is driven by the (1) evolution of biomaterials from bioinert to bioactive and bioresorbable and (2) the increasingly complex biomedical problems of an aging and more active population. As an example, the existing total joint replacements have a 75 - 85 % survivability at 15 years. However, since they were first introduced in the 1960s, average life expectancy increased by at least ten years impacting on the quality of the bone and implants survivability that deteriorate with age. As a consequence, improved implant survivability by 10 - 20 years and alternative treatment methods that delay or eliminate the use of prostheses are badly needed.

The Biomaterials course covers in an interdisciplinary approach (biomaterial engineering and biology) the background information on type, composition, processing and properties of biomaterials along with their evolution. Metallic, polymeric and ceramic materials are included and their properties are described and compared with those of biological materials. The main methodologies for biomaterials characterization are covered as well as the procedures for biomaterials standardization and regulation. Further, the interactions between biomaterials and specific biological environments are explained and used for defining the specific requirements and selection principles for biomaterials. Here, biomaterials and medical devices for orthopedics, cardiovascular system and tissue engineering are covered. Finally, the research directions and approaches for development of novel biomaterials are outlined.