ABSTRACT
Hydrogels are a class of hydrophilic polymers which characteristically display a high degree of biocompatibility, flexibility, resistance to non-specific macromolecular adhesion and ease of processability. This chapter discusses the utility of these materials as surface coatings to enhance performance of medical devices, for example through promotion of osseointegration, haemocompatibility, lubricity and resistance to biofouling. The promising potential of next-generation, multi-functional hydrogel coatings for the attainment of targeted, site-specific delivery of bioactive agents from implanted devices in tune with in vivo requirements, along with the design criteria for such coatings, is also discussed. As reported in this chapter, through facile manipulation of surface properties, hydrogel coatings offer an attractive solution to address many of the major issues of compatibility, infection and integration associated with the routine use of current medical device technologies.
