Chapter 12 - Light materials for bio-implants

Nanotechnology has opened up new frontiers in the development of advanced materials for bio-implants. These cutting-edge materials, often referred to as nanomaterials, exhibit exceptional properties that make them potential candidates for a wide range of biomedical devices. By manipulating materials at the nanoscale, scientists can create lightweight, strong, and biocompatible materials that are well-suited for use in bio-implants. The controlled porosity allows for precise tuning of mechanical strength and surface properties, crucial for optimizing tissue integration and drug delivery in implants which provides lower risk of rejection and faster recovery times. As a result, nanotechnology-based light materials have paved the way for more advanced and durable bio-implants, offering hope for enhanced patient outcomes and improved quality of life. Moreover, these nanomaterials hold significant promise in the improvement of advanced drug delivery systems and sensors. Their improved specific surface area allows for better drug loading and release, enabling targeted therapies and reduced side effects. Additionally, nanotechnology-based light materials can be engineered to possess unique optical, electrical, and magnetic properties, making them valuable tools for monitoring and controlling various biological processes. These materials, often made from ceramics, metals, or polymers, are engineered to exhibit interconnected pores, promoting tissue ingrowth and integration. Porous metals like titanium or tantalum are highly biocompatible and sturdy, making them ideal for load-bearing implants such as orthopedic prostheses. On the other hand, bioresorbable polymers, like polylactic acid or polycaprolactone, are advantageous for temporary implants, gradually dissolving as the tissue heals. Additionally, bioceramics like hydroxyapatite are renowned for their exceptional biocompatibility and capacity to stimulate bone regeneration. These materials enable osseointegration, making them suitable for dental implants and bone grafts. As research in this field continues to advance, the integration of nanomaterials into bio-implants promises to revolutionize the field of healthcare, offering safer and more effective solutions for patients in need of implants.

Ali Bakhshi, Mahya Bakhshi, Seyed Morteza Naghib Chapter 12 - Light materials for bio-implants, 307-342 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-443-27378-0.00012-X

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