Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
carbon ibrous implants conirm that carbon ibers do not inhibit
tissue growth, and thus can act as a scaffold for tissue proliferation
[41].
On the other hand, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are very prevalent
in today's world of medical research and are being highly researched
in the ields of eficient drug delivery and biosensing methods for
disease treatment and health monitoring [56, 79]. CNTs possess
exceptional mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties, facili-
tating their use as reinforcements or additives in various materials
to improve the properties of the materials. In the medical ield,
biomaterials are expected to be developed using CNTs for clinical
use. Biomaterials often are placed adjacent to bone. The use of
CNTs is anticipated in these biomaterials applied to bone mainly to
improve their overall mechanical properties, for applications such
as high-strength arthroplasty prostheses or ixation plates and
screws that will not fail [116]. The use of CNTs in drug delivery and
biosensing technology has the potential to revolutionize medicine.
Functionalization of single-wall nanotubes (SWNTs) has proven
to enhance solubility and allow for eficient tumor targeting/drug
delivery. Research shows that functionalized carbon nanotubes are
non-cytotoxic and preserve the functionality of primary immune
cells [38].
3
.
3
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2 BioactiveCeramics
A bioactive material is a material that obtains a speciic biological
response at the interface of the material, which would result in the
formation of a bond between the tissues and the material [49, 52,
54, 142]. A bioactive ceramic undergoes chemical reactions in the
body, but only at its surface. Upon implantation, surface-reactive
ceramics form strong bonds with the closest tissue. The surface
reactive implants respond to local pH changes by releasing Ca
2+
,
Na
+
, and K
+
ions and lead to bonding of tissues at the interfaces [51].
The ion exchange reaction between the bioactive implant and the
surrounding body luids, in some cases, results in the formation of
a biologically active carbonated apatite (CHA) layer on the implant
that is a mimic to the mineral phase of bones. Common bioactive
ceramics used in orthopedic surgery are bioglass, ceravital, and A-W
glass ceramic. However, the mechanical properties of these bioactive
ceramic are generally weaker than bioinert ceramics. Only A-W glass
