Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the synthesis of polyurethane elastomers, their chemistry, and methods of bulk and surface modification. It contains a review of polymer processing, relevant to the fabrication of medical devices and a survey of biomedical polymers. The book examines of the microphase structure of the polyurethanes, and consideration of their physical properties. It reviews of the surface characterization and properties of polyurethanes. The book presents a review of the biological interactions with polyurethanes, including plasma protein adsorption, blood compatibility and soft tissue interactions of polyurethanes. It discusses the biodegradation of polyurethanes, reviewing the current understanding of toxicity of polyurethanes and their stability in the biological environment. The book reviews the more common applications and performance of polyurethanes as medical devices.