Main description:

While the prevalence of plastics and elastomers in medical devices is now quite well known, there is less information available covering the use of medical devices and the applications of polymers beyond medical devices, such as in hydrogels, biopolymers and silicones beyond enhancement applications, and few books in which these are combined into a single reference.

This book is a comprehensive reference source, bringing together a number of key medical polymer topics in one place for a broad audience of engineers and scientists, especially those currently developing new medical devices or seeking more information about current and future applications. In addition to a broad range of applications, the book also covers clinical outcomes and complications arising from the use of the polymers in the body, giving engineers a vital insight into the real world implications of the devices they're creating. Regulatory issues are also covered in detail. The book also presents the latest developments on the use of polymers in medicine and development of nano-scale devices.

Contents:

Introduction and History
Application of Plastics in Medical Devices and Equipment
Polymer Considerations in Medical Device Design
Nanomedical Devices
Biofilms, Biomaterials, and Device Related Infections
Adhesives for Medical and Dental Applications
Review of Research in Cardiovascular Devices
Medical Applications of Silicones
Corporate Considerations on Biomaterials and Medical Devices
Polymeric Biomaterials
Applications of Polyaryletheretherketone in Spinal Implants
Miscellaneous Drugs, materials, medical devices, and techniques
Intubation, Rescue Devices, and Airway Adjuncts
Hydrogels in Regenerative Medicine
Aerosol Therapy and Delivery Systems
Biodegradable Polymers
Regulations for Medical Devices and Application to Plastics Suppliers
Introduction to Food Irradiation and Medical Sterilization
Microbubble Imaging and Diagnosis

Appendix - Medical Device Definition and Classification