Elastomers for biomedical applications

Current topics in elastomers for biomedical applications are reviewed. Elastomeric biomaterials, such as silicones, thermoplastic elastomers, polyolefin and polydiene elastomers, poly(vinyl chloride), natural rubber, heparinized polymers, hydrogels, polypeptides elastomers and others are described. In addition biomedical applications, such as cardiovascular devices, prosthetic devices, general medical care products, transdermal therapeutic systems, orthodontics, and ophthalmology are reviewed as well. Elastomers will find increasing use in medical products, offering biocompatibility, durability, design flexibility, and favorable performance/cost ratios. Elastomers will play a key role in medical technology of the future.