Recent advances in micro/nanoscale biomedical implants

The medical device industry is growing at a very fast pace and has recorded great research activity over the past decade. The interdisciplinary nature of this field has made it possible for researchers to incorporate principles from various allied areas like pharmaceutics, bioengineering, biotechnology, chemistry, electronics, biophysics etc. to develop superior medical solutions, offering better prospects to the patient. Moreover, micro and nanotechnology have made it possible to positively affect at the sub-micron scales, the cellular processes initiated upon implantation. Literature is rife with findings on various implants and this review comprehensively summarizes the recent advances in micro/nanoscale implantable medical devices-particularly cardiovascular implants, neural implants, orthopedic and dental implants and other miscellaneous implants. Over the years, medical implants have metamorphosed from mere support providing devices to smart interventions participating positively in the healing process. We have highlighted the current research in each area emphasizing on the value addition provided by micro/nanoscale features, its course through the past and the future perspectives focusing on the unmet needs. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.