Medical and healthcare devices: materials perspective

People are special. The importance and need for the research and development into medical and healthcare devices can never be overstated. In the 21st century, medical and healthcare devices play a more vital role in our lives than ever before. A wide range of materials are being used for producing numerous medical and healthcare devices for a variety of end use. In this manuscript, historical development of wound care dressings and products are reviewed. The characteristics and requirements of modern wound dressings are summarized. A core part is devoted to the description of the materials used in medical and healthcare devices. Selected synthetic polymers are listed with their applications in medical and healthcare devices. The advantages and limitations of fibres, metals, ceramics and composites are denoted. Textile structures are highlighted with their applications in medical and healthcare devices.

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