Polymer-Based Biomaterials for Local Therapy in Cervical Cancer: A Mini-Review

Cervical cancer continues to require more precise and clinically adaptable local treatment strategies, particularly in the face of insufficient drug accumulation at the lesion site, systemic toxicity of conventional chemotherapy, limited development of postoperative tissue-interfacing platforms, and the anatomical constraints of standard radiotherapy devices. In this mini-review, we summarize the current landscape of polymer-based biomaterials for local therapy in cervical cancer from both materials and clinical perspectives. Specifically, we discuss three interconnected application domains: local drug delivery systems, polymeric scaffolds and tissue-interfacing platforms, and 3D-printed radiotherapy devices. Recent studies indicate that polymer-based local delivery systems, including nanofiber- and hydrogel-based formulations, can improve cervicovaginal retention, controlled release, and local therapeutic exposure. Scaffold-based systems further extend the role of biomaterials by combining sustained local delivery with defect-specific support and tissue interaction, whereas 3D-printed radiotherapy devices contribute primarily through precision enablement, individualized implantation guidance, and improved conformity in anatomically challenging cases. Despite these advances, most available studies remain preclinical or early translational, and important barriers persist in long-term safety, standardization, clinically relevant validation, and workflow integration. Future progress will depend on application-specific design, stronger translational rigor, and closer integration of biomaterials, imaging, and personalized clinical practice.