Biomaterials for Bioengineers

Module aims

This module will introduce major classes of biomedical implant materials including metals, ceramics and polymers. We will focus of how these classes of materials have been used clinically to replace body parts or tissues within the body as implanted devices, the types and reasons for failure and introduce biomaterials as tissue engineering constructs to regenerate diseased tissues to restore organ function.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module you will be able to:

1. Differentiate various tissues and organs within the human body and explain the effects of ageing and disease on the structure and mechanical properties of these tissues
2. Describe and compare the major classes of biomedical implant materials, their basic properties, means of fixation, stability and advantages and disadvantages when used as implant devices
3. Determine the types of failure of implants and devices in various clinical applications and reasons for failure
4. Justify the physiological principles involved in the replacement of various parts of the body with artificial organs, transplants or tissue engineered constructs and the clinical compromises involved
5. Critically discuss the principles involved in growing tissues in vitro and describe the physiological and clinical limitations involved; 5) Defend the relative merits of replacing a body part with a tissue engineering construct
6. Conduct an effective and critical literature search on new developments in replacement of tissues and organs
7. Professionally communicate alternative means to repair or replace parts of the body to both healthcare professionals and patients.

Module content

This module will introduce major classes of biomedical implant materials including metals, ceramics and polymers. We will focus of how these classes of materials have been used clinically to replace body parts or tissues within the body as implanted devices, the types and reasons for failure and introduce biomaterials as tissue engineering constructs to regenerate diseased tissues to restore organ function.

Module lead

Adam Celiz

ECTS/FHEQ

5/7

Module code

BIOE70033

Host department

Department of Bioengineering

Term

Autumn

Time slot

PM

Teaching weeks

2-11

August resit opportunity?

Yes

How to apply

Via MOPSY 

Application deadline

4 October 2024

Places available (approximate)

No cap

Number of applicants (historic)

3

Criteria used for student selection

Fair balance between departments, then exam results from previous year

Further information

bg-studentoffice@imperial.ac.uk