Polymeric biomaterials

Polymers are a versatile class of materials that lend themselves to many different applications. They are the most commonly used group of materials for biomedical applications. Polymers are used in products ranging from low risk, noninvasive devices such as blood bags and surgical gloves through to high risk applications for cardiovascular and orthopaedic implants. This review will give a general outline of types of polymeric biomaterials, their properties, uses and associated problems specific to medical use. Thermoplastic polyurethane elastomers (TPUs) will be used as a specific illustration of the performance of polymers in medicine. The relationship between chemistry, morphology, processing parameters and biostability of TPUs will be discussed