Biosensors & Bioelectronics

Bioengineering Applications

Bioengineering applications of smart materials can be divided into three categories: (1) implants and stents, such as bone plates and marrow needles; (2) surgical and dental instruments, devices, and fixtures, such as orthodontic fixtures and biopsy forceps; and (3) devices and instruments for medical checkups, such as ultrasonic devices. The applications of the first category require strict biocompatibility of a material because it is implanted in the body for long periods. Among many traditional materials, including metals, alloys, and ceramics, that are available commercially, only a limited number are currently used as prostheses or biomaterials in medicine and dentistry.