Metallic Biomedical Materials

Biomedical Technology: Challenges and Solutions for the Safety of Metallic Implants

02/23/2025

Ricardo Luiz Perez Teixeira

Instituto de Engenharias Integradas da Universidade Federal de Itajubá, Itabira, MG, Brazil

ricardo.luiz@unifei.edu.br

https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2641-4036

Abstract: The utilization of metallic biomedical materials in prostheses and implants is widespread; however, they carry inherent risks to human health. For instance, stainless steel AISI 316L may provoke allergic reactions due to its nickel content. Efforts to mitigate this risk include studying the incorporation of nitrogen into the alloy, although its long-term safety warrants further evaluation. Hydroxyapatite, another implant material, poses a risk when coated on metallic biomaterials, potentially increasing the likelihood of clot and embolism formation. Advancements in biomaterials science have explored the use of carbohydrate-derived protein-resistant biomaterials, which offer biodegradable and functional alternatives. Polyether, synthesized from natural carbohydrates, demonstrates promising protein-resistant properties and can be utilized in various medical devices. Additionally, recent innovations focus on developing long-term hemocompatible materials, especially for cardiopulmonary bypass systems, where blood-biomaterial interactions can lead to thrombus formation and infection. Protein-based biomaterials are also being investigated to improve vascular tissue engineering. These materials serve as scaffolding to create living blood vessel replacements, addressing the complexity of small-diameter applications in blood vessel replacements. Furthermore, there is ongoing research into biomaterials that control cell adhesion and migration, utilizing compounds such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) to enhance biomaterial functionality and reduce protein adsorption. Biomaterials have broad applications in drug-delivery systems, orthopedics, cardiovascular applications, ophthalmics, dental applications, and wound healing. For example, drug-delivery devices with controlled and targeted release mechanisms are rapidly growing, and biomaterials for orthopedics are used to replace and regenerate damaged tissues such as bone and cartilage. In cardiovascular applications, implants can replace damaged heart valves or arteries, and in ophthalmics, polymer-based intraocular lenses are used to replace clouded lenses caused by cataracts. Degradable metallic biomaterials for temporary implants are gaining attention due to their ability to interact with living tissues and facilitate controlled degradation. In vitro cytotoxicity methods are essential for evaluating these materials, assessing their interactions with cells, and their potential effects on the body's tissues. Researchers are developing controlled-release systems and evaluating biocompatibility to ensure the safety and efficacy of new biomaterials. The author of this blog is actively engaged in the field of metallic biomaterials, aiming to enhance the quality of life and foster technological advancement. Particular focus is placed on materials developed within Brazil, such as stainless steel AISI 316L, which holds the potential to propel national development and elevate the standard of human living. Serving as a professor in the Professional Master's Program in Materials Engineering at the Federal University of Itajubá, the author advocates for the involvement of engineering professionals and those in related disciplines in metallic biomaterial research, offering guidance through their academic and scientific-technological endeavors. This work contributes to Brazil's progress and the broader welfare of humanity.

Keywords: AISI 316L, biomaterial, metallic biomedical materials

Articles published on August 6, 2025:

Teixeira, R. L. P. (2025). Electrochemical Stability and Corrosion Resistance of Metallic Implants: An Integrative Review on Surface Engineering and Biocompatibility. Revista De Gestão - RGSA, 19(8), e013035. https://doi.org/10.24857/rgsa.v19n8-010 , https://rgsa.openaccesspublications.org/rgsa/article/view/13035

Teixeira, R. L. P. (2025). Chapter 12 Electrochemical investigations and corrosion stability of the metallic implants. In A. Prasad, M. Sinha & J. Davim (Ed.), High-Performance Metallic Biomaterials: Surface Modification and Coating of Implants (pp. 251-272). De Gruyter. https://doi.org/10.1515/9783111571423-012

References (under development…):

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