Bioresorbable Metals for Biomedical Applications: From Mechanical Components to Electronic Devices

Abstract

Bioresorbable metals and metal alloys are of growing interest for myriad uses in temporary biomedical implants. Examples range from structural elements as stents, screws, and scaffolds to electronic components as sensors, electrical stimulators, and programmable fluidics. The associated physical forms span mechanically machined bulk parts to lithographically patterned conductive traces, across a diversity of metals and alloys based on magnesium, zinc, iron, tungsten, and others. The result is a rich set of opportunities in healthcare materials science and engineering. This review article summarizes recent advances in this area, starting with an historical perspective followed by a discussion of materials options, considerations in biocompatibility, and device applications. Highlights are in system level bioresorbable electronic platforms that support functions as diagnostics and therapeutics in the context of specific, temporary clinical needs. A concluding section highlights challenges and emerging research directions.

A Review on Manufacturing Processes of Biocomposites Based on Poly(α-Esters) and Bioactive Glass Fillers for Bone Regeneration

“…Besides, 3D printing of resorbable metallic Mg- or Zn-based scaffolds fabricated by 3D printing are considered as an interesting strategy to combine the advantages of scaffold structure with the controllable reduction of mechanical properties to obtain similar performance of bone [ 96 ].…”

Green flexible electronics based on starch

“…The investigations on the toxicology of such materials in FEs need to be promoted urgently, in which the biologist should be involved. Some metals and metal alloys have been found to be bioabsorbable and widely used in temporary biomedical implants 167 . On the other hand, if the conductive materials were chemical modified or enveloped with biocompatible molecules, the toxicity may be significantly lowered down to the acceptable level, thus meeting the requirements of diagnose or therapy.…”

Effect of Pulse Frequency on the Microstructure and the Degradation of Pulse Electroformed Zinc for Fabricating the Shell of Biodegradable Dosing Pump

“…Bioabsorbable metals and metal alloys are widely used in short-term implanted dosing pumps [ 1 ]. Zinc can be considered a candidate for the shell of implanted dosing pump because of its beneficial features [ 2 ].…”