MS4013: Biomaterials

Course Instructor

Assistant Professor Czarny Bertrand

Course AIMS

This course will introduce you to the types of biomaterials used in health care applications. In particular, host reactions to biomaterials and biological testing of metallic, ceramic and polymeric biomaterials will be discussed. In vitro and in vivo biocompatibility of materials will be discussed in relation to the actual applications. Some key applications (case studies) of each  type of biomaterial will be covered, along with a discussion of the failure of biomedical devices caused by biocompatibility problems.

Intended Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you (as a student) would be able to:

1. Predict the role of biomaterials in medicine
2. Define biomaterials & biocompatibility
3. Explain the different role of biomaterials – Temporary, Degradable, Permanent
4. Describe and identify application of the different classes of Biomaterials – Metals, Ceramics, Polymers, hydrogels
5. Explain the implant Failure – Infection, Loosening, Fracture & Wear
6. Describe the effect of implant on body – toxic, bioinert, bioactive
7. Explain the effect of body on implant – environmental effect: corrosion, degradation
8. Explain the history of Biomaterials – Why some implants work, why some don’t, evolution of role of biomaterials – from passive (bioinert) to interactive & integrative bioactive) to instructive (regenerative medicine)
   

Course Content

Introduction to Biomaterials; Biology and Medicine; Biocompatibility; Biological Testing of Materials; Classes of Materials used in Medicine; Applications.

Reading and References