Biomaterials: a primer for surgeons

Biomaterials offer the surgeon a powerful set of clinical tools for patient treatment and are found in virtually every instrument, device, implant, or piece of equipment in the operating room. In fact, surgeons have historically driven clinical application of biomaterials and stand uniquely positioned to contribute to the ongoing development of biomaterials. Having an understanding of the materials available and their basic properties can contribute to better and more effective outcomes. This article provides an overview of the biomaterials field. It begins with a definition and abbreviated history of the field, highlighting its clinical roots. An introduction to the four material classifications--metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites--is then presented, providing the reader with basic properties of each group and examples of materials. Sections on nanotechnology and tissue engineering also briefly describe development within the field. Finally, the evolution of treatments for pectus excavatum and congenital diaphragmatic hernias are presented, highlighting the role of biomaterials. While providing a primer of the field, this paper shows the broad interdisciplinary reach of material science in surgery and suggests sources for further investigations.