A Comprehensive Review on Biodegradable Polymers

Biodegradable polymers have been widely used in biomedical applications because of their known biocompatibility and biodegradability. Degradable polymeric biomaterials are preferred candidates for developing therapeutic devices such as temporary prostheses, three dimensional porous structures as scaffolds for tissue engineering and as controlled/sustained release drug delivery vehicles. Biodegradable materials are used in packaging, agriculture, medicine and other areas. In the biomedical area, polymers are generally used as implants and are expected to perform long term service. These improvements contribute to make medical treatment more efficient and to minimize side effects and other types of inconveniences for patients. The following review presents an overview of the different biodegradable polymers and their applications.