Functional medical textiles are undergoing a revolution in structural design. Medical textiles as non-implantables, implantables, and extracorporeals, are playing central roles in healthcare improvements enhancing and prolonging the quality of life. Developments in the design of materials that function at the biological-material interface address material biocompatibility and bioactive function. A deeper understanding of the physiological, biochemical and biophysical milieu of biomaterials is being carved out in critical areas like wound healing, implant biocompatibility, dialysis and pressure ulcer prevention, which coupled with advancements in nanotechnology has great promise for tissue engineering and areas of biomaterial design for wound healing and prevention.
Revised: May 22, 2012 |
Published: May 11, 2011
Citation
Edwards J.V., and S.C. Goheen. 2011.New Developments in Functional Medical Textiles and Their Mechanism of Action. In Functional Textiles for Improved Performance, Protection and Health, edited by N Pan and G Sun. 293-319. Cambridge:Woodhead Publishing Limited. PNWD-SA-9234.