Biomaterials: From Theory to Applications

Biomaterial is a substance that is engineered to interact with biological systems for medical purposes. These purposes can either be therapeutic or diagnostic. The study of biomaterials is called biomaterial science or biomaterial engineering. Biomaterial science makes use of elements from medicine, biology, chemistry, tissue engineering and material science. Biomaterials can be derived from nature. They can also be synthesized in the laboratory by using varieties of chemical approaches such as utilizing metallic components, ceramics or composite materials and polymers. Biomaterials comprise a part or a whole of living structure or biochemical device which performs, augments or replaces a natural function. They are used for various medical purposes such as joint replacements, bone plates, intraocular lenses, bone cement, artificial ligaments and tendons, blood vessel prostheses, dental implants, heart valves, etc. The ever growing need of advanced technology is the reason that has fueled the research in the field of biomaterials in recent times. Most of the topics introduced in this book cover new techniques and the applications of biomaterials. The extensive content of this book provides the readers with a thorough understanding of the subject.