Nanobioceramic coatings for biomedical applications

The development of biomaterials for the repair or replacement of hard tissue is a challenging and a promising area of research. Engineering cell and tissue behaviour at biomaterial surfaces at the nanoscale level can be accomplished by chemically modifying surfaces with biologically active macromolecules or physically modifying the surface topography at the nanoscale. Bioceramics have been used very successfully within the human body for many years. They are commonly used in orthopaedic surgery and dentistry but they are potentially suitable for a wide range of important applications within the medical device industry. The fabrication, microstructure and properties of this highly active area of research and the significance of a range of nanobioceramic coatings by electrochemical techniques are discussed. Bio-inspired materials open new approaches for manufacturing implants for bone replacement. The application of these nanobioceramic coating techniques to develop biomimetic coatings and scaffolds along with tissue engineering would set new trends in health care delivery system. The clinical applications of bioceramic coatings in joint replacement, bone grafts, tissue engineering, drug delivery systems and dentistry would serve as a useful resource for biomaterials scientists and engineers, as well as for clinicians and the academic community.