ABSTRACT

Biodegradable polyesters synthesized from naturally occurring fatty acids have been used in drug delivery and temporary implantable devices. They provide control over flexibility, melting temperature, hydrophobicity, and pliability. Dicarboxylic acid containing fatty acids are used along with hydroxy acids to give proper control over the final structure. Synthesis, physical properties, pharmacokinetics, stability, toxicology, and biomedical applications of polyesters and poly(ester-anhydride)s are discussed.