Global Polymeric Biomaterials: Emerging Trends and Applications
Polymeric biomaterials are materials derived from either natural or synthetic polymers that are used in medical applications contact with living tissue or fluids. These include materials used to replace parts of the body or to contact tissue or bodily fluids. Some commonly used polymeric biomaterials include biodegradable and non-biodegradable polymers.
Biodegradable Polymers
Biodegradable polymers break down and are absorbed by the body after performing their function. Some examples of biodegradable polymers used in medical applications include:
- Polylactic acid (PLA): PLA is a thermoplastic aliphatic polyester made from corn or sugarcane. It is used in orthopedic pins, screws, plates and drug delivery devices as it breaks down into natural metabolic products.
- Polyglycolic acid (PGA): PGA is a biodegradable thermoplastic polyester approved by the FDA for use in dissolvable sutures. It breaks down completely in 4 to 6 months.
- Polycaprolactone (PCL): PCL is a semicrystalline polyester used in resorbable sutures. It breaks down slowly over 2 years, making it useful for long term drug delivery.
- Polyanhydrides: Polyanhydrides degrade faster than PLA and PGA, breaking down in days or weeks. They are used in short term drug delivery and implants requiring rapid degradation.
Non-Biodegradable Polymers
Non-biodegradable polymers are not broken down by the body and remain in place long-term to perform their functions. Some common non-biodegradable polymers used in medical applications include:
- Silicones: Silicones are inert polymers used to make long-term implants like pacemaker leads, breast implants and augmentation devices due to their resistance to degradation.
- Polyethylene (PE): PE is used in joint replacements and hip sockets due to its durability, strength and flexibility. Ultra-high molecular weight PE (UHMWPE) is used in articulating implant surfaces.
- Polypropylene (PP): PP is commonly used in hernia meshes and blood dialysis filters due to its low reactivity, flexibility and strength. It maintains integrity over long periods in the body.
- Polyurethanes: Polyurethanes are used in pacemaker leads and catheters due to their flexibility and elasticity. They are highly resistant to fatigue and degradation.
Global Market for Polymeric Biomaterials
The global market for Polymeric Biomaterials was valued at $24 billion in 2020 and is projected to reach $41 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 7%. North America currently dominates the market due to growing elderly population and rising chronic disease rates. However, Asia Pacific is emerging as the fastest growing market region globally.
Application Trends in Polymeric Biomaterials
Some key application trends in polymeric biomaterials include:
- Orthopedic Implants: As the population ages, demand for polymeric biomaterials in joint replacements, plates, screws and pins is growing rapidly. PLA, PGA and UHMWPE are commonly used.
- Plastic Surgery: Surgical meshes made of PP or PE are widely used in hernia repair procedures. Breast implants using silicones are also growing in demand.
- Drug Delivery: Biodegradable polymers like PLA and PCL are increasingly used to deliver drugs, proteins and other therapeutics long-term in a controlled manner.
- Artificial Organs: Membranes and casings made of PE, PP and PU are vital components of kidney dialyzers, artificial hearts, lungs and limbs. Innovation is occurring to replicate natural tissues.
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