Biological response to orthopedic implants and biomaterials

Abstract

The rate of orthopedic implant use is increasing, and this trend is expected to continue in the next decades due to aging population and improving medical care. Biomaterials can be grouped under the four headings metallic, ceramic, polymeric, and composite materials. In addition to the competency of the surgeon, the success of these synthetic or natural biomaterials is dependent on the properties of the biomaterial, biocompatibility of the implant, and the condition of the recipient tissue. Despite major advances in orthopedic biomaterials and allergic and foreign body response, biomaterials- related complications such as implant loosening and infection are still restricting the use of biomaterials in daily practice. Surface modification of biomaterials has been developed for tailoring of surface properties of the orthopedic implants. These altered surface properties mostly improve tissue-biomaterial interactions and also mechanical characteristics of the implants.