Biomaterials

Learning Outcomes

Disciplinary Specific Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of prospective joint replacement materials.
• Prepare brief technical reports on clinically relevant problems.
• Solve problems by linking appropriate analytical approaches to engineering problems.
• Make informed decisions as to the best method to assess the suitability of a material for a specific application.
• Apply material property analysis techniques to orthopaedic biomaterials selection.

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• C1/M1 Applying a knowledge of natural science and engineering principles based on a comprehensive understanding of materials science and mechanics to solve complex problems associated with the use and function of biomaterials in the body. The latest developments in biomaterials are discussed, supported by clinician feedback. C2 Case studies are presented throughout the course, and the coursework focusses on a real-life case study on a recent widely reported implant failure. The reasoning behind the failures and how they could have been avoided are discussed. C13/M13 The students are taught how biomaterials are selected, designed and manufactured using the latest engineering technologies and processes, in the context of safety critical devices. The limitations are discussed, and alternative materials and processes are introduced to further underpin the students’ knowledge. C17 The coursework is a written assignment that brings together principles learned in the initial series of lectures and asks the students to explain how implant components failed. They are asked to distil information from technical papers into a concise and readable report.

Knowledge and Understanding

Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:

• Biocompatibility and corrosion issues of these materials.
• Material properties of metallic, polymer based and ceramic materials used in implants.
• Techniques used to assess the performance of these materials both individually and as part of a joint replacement.

Arthroplasty surgery:

• Anatomy of the hip and knee before and after implantation.
• Conditions necessitating implant surgery.
• The functions of the prosthesis.

Biomaterials - structure property relationships:

• Metallics

.

• Ceramics.
• Polymers.
• Polymer based composites.

The Bioenvironment:

• Bioenvironment effects.
• Implant interactions.

Corrosion of biomaterials:

• Degradation of the material and its effects -
• Biological effects.
• Chemical effects.
• Mechanical effects.

Biocompatibility of materials used in hip and knee arthroplasty:

• Concepts of biocompatibility -
• Mechanical biocompatibility.
• Chemical biocompatibility.
• Biocompatibility testing/cell culture.
• Genocompatibility.

Biomaterials selection and performance:

• Orthopaedic materials.
• Other applications.

Performance prediction of the total joint replacement:

• Mechanical testing.
• Passive monitoring.
• Clinical studies.

Revision and past papers.

Demonstration.

Note guest seminars from external speakers form part of the above lectures.

Teaching methods include

• Provision of skeleton lecture notes.
• Handouts.
• Case studies.
• Practical demonstrations.
• Industrial talks.

Learning activities include

• Directed reading and web based resource searches.
• Written coursework based on research into clinical experience (e.g. cases of implant failure).
• Learning outcomes include.
• Understanding of engineering principles and the ability to apply them to conduct the materials selection process.
• Ability to apply and integrate knowledge and understanding of engineering materials to support the study of biomedical engineering.
• A comprehensive knowledge and understanding of biomedical materials, in particular orthopaedic biomaterials, and an appreciation of their limitations.
• The ability to extract data pertinent to an unfamiliar problem, and apply to the problem of materials selection in new devices.
• An awareness of developing technologies related to biomaterials.
• A thorough understanding of current practice and its limitations through case study evaluation and some appreciation of likely new developments in the biomaterials field.

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.

Repeat

An internal repeat is where you take all of your modules again, including any you passed. An external repeat is where you only re-take the modules you failed.