Shape Memory Polymer Foams for Biomedical Devices

Abstract

Shape memory polymers (SMPs) constitute a group of high performance smart materials that have recently gained widespread attention. Their potential role in clinical applications has only become recognized in the last 7-8 years. These materials were found to be biocompatible, non-toxic and non-mutagenic. Some simple SMP applications are already used in a clinical setting, whereas others are still in development. Recently developed polyurethane-based SMP foams combined with cold hibernated elastic memory (CHEM) processing, widen their potential medical applications. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of CHEM foams can be tailored for shape restoration/self-deployment of clinical devices when inserted in the human body. They can be miniaturized and deformed, inserted in the human body through small catheters, and subsequently can recover a larger predetermined shape once in satisfactory position. In this review paper CHEM foam materials and their potential medical applications are described. Their major advantages over other medical materials are delineated. Also, several important medical applications of CHEM foams are explained here as well.