Bioceramics in tissue engineering

Abstract

This chapter is focused on the classification of bioceramics and their medical applications. Alumina, zirconia or alumina-zirconia-based composite bioinert ceramics are currently used as femoral heads, acetabular cups for hip replacement, and dental implants. Nano-structured bioinert ceramics with significantly improved toughness and stability are desirable for future clinical needs. Bioactive glass and calcium phosphates are being investigated as bone fillers, bone cements, coatings, and scaffolds for bone repair and regeneration. Cell-laden biodegradable bioceramic/biopolymer hybrid composites mimicking the bony hierarchical structure present the desired properties for bone substitution and tissue engineering and are creating a new generation of regeneration materials. Bioceramics for dental and cancer treatment are also introduced in this chapter. Further challenges in bioceramic scaffold fabrication for tissue engineering are also discussed. © 2011 Springer-Verlag/Wien.