Metals for biomedical applications and devices

Abstract

Humans have tried to restore function to the human body stricken with trauma or disease. Often metals and other materials have been used for this purpose. Metals in biomedical device are exploited due to their inertness and structural functions. They are generally preferred over polymers or ceramics especially in applications where the implants are subjected to loads either static, dynamic or cyclic in nature requiring a combination of strength and ductility. This article aims to review the metals used in and for biomedical devices, the current trend in the research and development of these metals including recent developments in the area of biodegradable metals and surface modification of these metals for biomedical applications.