ABSTRACT
A biomaterial is defined as a material used to replace part of a defective living system in close contact with the living system. Biomaterials are, therefore, constantly interacting with tissue or biological fluids. The biocompatibility required for biomaterials is associated with the bulk and surface characteristics of materials. Bulk properties involve chemical composition, mechanical properties, and design of the implants, whereas surface properties involve the material/tissue interface. The optimal surface property definitely depends on the specific application. There are many materials that meet their bulk biocompatibility requirements; however, not many of them possess ideal surface properties. Cell and tissue adhesion is one of the first events that occurs at the biomaterial surface, which leads to cell proliferation and differentiation. Hence, this determines the host responses towards the implant material.
