Question

Write a brief note on polymers used in medical field .

Answer 1

1) Biomaterials are the substances that can be implanted in the bodies of human beings to provide special prosthetic function or used in surgical ,diagnostic and therapeutic applications without causing any adverse effect on the blood and other tissues of human body .
2 ) Biomaterials are versatile and can be modified to suit specific body functions .
3 ) The following are the characteristics of biomaterials :
a) Purity and reproducibility
b) Easy sterilization and should not be toxic or allergic .
c) Optimum physical and chemical properties .
d) Should be fabricated into desired shape or form .
e) Should be chemically inert and not affect body fluids .
f) Should be flexible .
4 ) The applications of polymeric biomaterials are as follows :

Polymer	Applications
1.Silicone polymer rubber	Heart valves ,artificial heart ,blood filters ,vascular tubing
2. Polymethyl methacrylate	Contact lenses ,dental restoratives
3. Polyvinyl chloride	Disposable syringes
4. Polylactic acid	Dialysis media ,drug delievery ,organ regeneration ,plastic surgery ,etc.
5.Polyglycollic acid	Surgical applications ,medical devices such as anastomosis rings ,plates ,rods ,pins ,screws ,etc .
6.Polyurethane rubber	Reconstructive surgery