1. Definition and properties of a biomaterial
After these often instructive historical reminders of the trial and error that has led to a number of modern therapeutic treatments over the centuries, it's time to define exactly what a biomaterial is. There are many different definitions. Only one is considered here, the one adopted in 1986 at the so-called "consensus conference" in Chester (UK) by the European Society for Biomaterials:
"a biomaterial is a non-living material of natural or synthetic origin used in a medical device intended to interact with biological systems".
It is agreed that a biomaterial may be in contact with a tissue of the human body on a continuous or intermittent basis in order to replace or restore one or more functions. This somewhat restrictive definition excludes surgical instruments and external prostheses, such as...
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Definition and properties of a biomaterial
In vitro experimental procedures specific to biomaterials
Bibliography
Websites
On biocompatibility and the different alloys used http://membres.lycos.fr/atollimplant/tolerance.htm
Dental implants and osseointegration http://www.implants-dchappuis.ch/implants.htm
Norms and Standards
- Dental art – Metallic materials for fixed and removable restorations and appliances - EN ISO 22674 - 2006
- Surgical implants – High-density alumina-based ceramic products - ISO 6474 - 1994
Statistical and economic data
In industrialized countries, the lifespan of the population is increasing (figure 1 ), which may partly explain the growing development of biomaterials....
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