Polymers are important and attractive biomaterials for researchers and clinical applications due to the ease of tailoring their chemical, physical and biological properties for target devices. Due to this versatility they are rapidly replacing other classes of biomaterials such as ceramics or metals. As a result, the demand for biomedical polymers has grown exponentially and supports a diverse and highly monetized research community. Currently worth $1.2bn in 2009 (up from $650m in 2000), biomedical polymers are expected to achieve a CAGR of 9.8% until 2015, supporting a current research community of approximately 28,000+. Summarizing the main advances in biopolymer development of the last decades, this work systematically covers both the physical science and biomedical engineering of the multidisciplinary field. Coverage extends across synthesis, characterization, design consideration and biomedical applications. The work supports scientists researching the formulation of novel polymers with desirable physical, chemical, biological, biomechanical and degradation properties for specific targeted biomedical applications. - Combines chemistry, biology and engineering for expert and appropriate integration of design and engineering of polymeric biomaterials - Physical, chemical, biological, biomechanical and degradation properties alongside currently deployed clinical applications of specific biomaterials aids use as single source reference on field. - 15+ case studies provides in-depth analysis of currently used polymeric biomaterials, aiding design considerations for the future

Given the rapid development and use of biomaterials, it is becoming increasingly important to understand the structure, processing and properties of biomedical polymers and their medical applications. With its distinguished editor and team of international contributors, Biomedical Polymers reviews the latest research on this important group of biomaterials.The book discusses natural, synthetic, biodegradable and non bio-degradable polymers and their applications. Chapters review polymeric scaffolds for tissue engineering and drug delivery systems, the use of polymers in cell encapsulation, their role as replacement materials for heart valves and arteries, and their applications in joint replacement. The book also discusses the use of polymers in biosensor applications.Biomedical polymers is an essential reference for scientists and all those concerned with the development and use of this important group of biomaterials - Reviews the latest research in this important group of biomaterials - Discusses natural, synthetic, biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers and their applications - Examines the use of biomedical polymers in such areas as drug delivery systems and cell encapsulation

This book presents a comprehensive review on the various processing and post-processing methodologies for biodegradable polymers. Written by professionals with hands-on experience on polymer processing, this book provides first-hand knowledge of all contemporary processing techniques. The current status and future challenges in the field are described, as well as a framework for designing novel devices for desired applications.

Characterization of Polymeric Biomaterials presents a comprehensive introduction on the topic before discussing the morphology and surface characterization of biomedical polymers. The structural, mechanical, and biological characterization is described in detail, followed by invaluable case studies of polymer biomaterial implants. With comprehensive coverage of both theoretical and experimental information, this title will provide scientists with an essential guide on the topic of these materials which are regularly used for clinical applications, such as implants and drug delivery devices. However, a range of novel polymers and the development and modification of existing medical polymers means that there is an ongoing need to satisfy particular design requirements. This book explains the critical and fundamentals methods to characterize polymer materials for biomedical applications. - Presents a self-contained reference on the characterization of polymeric biomaterials - Provides comprehensive information on how to characterize biomedical polymers in order to improve design and synthesis - Includes useful case studies that demonstrate the characterization of biomaterial implants

With its content taken from only the very latest results, this is an extensive summary of the various polymeric materials used for biomedical applications. Following an introduction listing various functional polymers, including conductive, biocompatible and conjugated polymers, the book goes on to discuss different synthetic polymers that can be used, for example, as hydrogels, biochemical sensors, functional surfaces, and natural degradable materials. Throughout, the focus is on applications, with worked examples for training purposes as well as case studies included. The whole is rounded off with a look at future trends.

Offering nearly 7000 references-3900 more than the first edition-Polymeric Biomaterials, Second Edition is an up-to-the-minute source for plastics and biomedical engineers, polymer scientists, biochemists, molecular biologists, macromolecular chemists, pharmacists, cardiovascular and plastic surgeons, and graduate and medical students in these disciplines. Completely revised and updated, it includes coverage of genetic engineering, synthesis of biodegradable polymers, hydrogels, and mucoadhesive polymers, as well as polymers for dermacosmetic treatments, burn and wound dressings, orthopedic surgery, artificial joints, vascular prostheses, and in blood contacting systems.

This book is derived from a Symposium held at the 190th National American Chemical Society Meeting, which was held in the Fall of 1985, in Chicago, and was sponsored by the Division of Polymeric Materials: Science & Engineering. This Symposium was, in turn, a follow-up on an earlier one held in Houston, TX, in the Spring of 1980, which was pub lished as the book ·Biomedical and Dental Applications of Polymers· [Plenum Press, New York, 1981]. In that earlier book, our opening Preface passage quoted King David, ·1 will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and made . •• • (Psalm 139:14). As we noted five years ago, sickness wonderfully of many types does occur in our wonderfully made bodies, but much human suffering can be aided by biomedical polymers. That earlier book con sidered much of the fantastic progress that had been made in biomedical polymers during the previous quarter century and brought many of these topics up to date. That Symposium, and book, noted that much help was available for the varied afflictions and problems that sometimes beset, and upset, our God-given bodies, and the promise of new and important advances was held out as a shining ray of hope amidst the gloom of sickness and affliction. The present volume is an update on the advances that have occurred since the 1981 book and sets the stage for even greater advances in the future.

Polymers from natural sources are particularly useful as biomaterials and in regenerative medicine, given their similarity to the extracellular matrix and other polymers in the human body. This important book reviews the wealth of research on both tried and promising new natural-based biomedical polymers, together with their applications as implantable biomaterials, controlled-release carriers or scaffolds for tissue engineering.The first part of the book reviews the sources, processing and properties of natural-based polymers for biomedical applications. Part two describes how the surfaces of polymer-based biomaterials can be modified to improve their functionality. The third part of the book discusses the use of natural-based polymers for biodegradable scaffolds and hydrogels in tissue engineering. Building on this foundation, Part four looks at the particular use of natural-gelling polymers for encapsulation, tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. The penultimate group of chapters reviews the use of natural-based polymers as delivery systems for drugs, hormones, enzymes and growth factors. The final part of the book summarises research on the key issue of biocompatibility.Natural-based polymers for biomedical applications is a standard reference for biomedical engineers, those studying and researching in this important area, and the medical community. - Examines the sources, processing and properties of natural based polymers for biomedical applications - Explains how the surfaces of polymer based biomaterials can be modified to improve their functionality - Discusses the use of natural based polymers for hydrogels in tissue engineering, and in particular natural gelling polymers for encapsulation and regenerative medicine

Bioresorbable Polymers for Biomedical Applications: From Fundamentals to Translational Medicine provides readers with an overview of bioresorbable polymeric materials in the biomedical field. A useful resource for materials scientists in industry and academia, offering information on the fundamentals and considerations, synthesis and processing, and the clinical and R and D applications of bioresorbable polymers for biomedical applications. - Focuses on biomedical applications of bioresorbable polymers - Features a comprehensive range of topics including fundamentals, synthesis, processing, and applications - Provides balanced coverage of the field with contributions from academia and industry - Includes clinical and R and D applications of bioresorbable polymers for biomedical applications