Conflict resolution and Y2K problems. How biomaterials will face up to the real issues of the future

At the end of this century, the medical device industry has achieved some notable successes, yet achieves so little in terms of significant functional replacement and reconstruction of the body. This is partly because of the materials that are used. This article addresses the main points of concern and highlights the way in which medical devices of the future will be based on different principles and will deploy different tactics in the search for safe and reliable treatments of disease and injury.