Bioresorbable polymers for electronic medicine

Abstract

In the arena of materials science, the landscape of implantable sensors and stimulators is rapidly advancing, taking the form of transient electronics or what is colloquially known as “bioresorbable electronic medicine.” This pioneering technology holds a distinct advantage, as it dissolves within the human body, obviating the necessity for permanent implants and the attendant risks associated with removal surgeries. In the quest to fabricate bioresorbable devices with enduring in vivo stability, the pivotal role of bioresorbable polymers becomes apparent, serving as encapsulants, substrates, and dielectrics for electronic platforms. This paper provides a comprehensive review of potential bioresorbable polymeric materials, meticulously scrutinizing their utility in ensuring the durability and performance of electronic medicines. The core of this review is firmly rooted in the fundamental aspects of bioresorbable polymers, encompassing their synthesis, degradation mechanisms, and mechanical and thermal behaviors. Subsequent discussions illuminate the intricacies surrounding the utilization of bioresorbable polymers in the realm of electronic medicine, including water permeability, interfacial adhesion, and interactions with biological tissues. Furthermore, this exposition introduces practical deployment of bioresorbable polymers in electronic implants, with a particular emphasis on the underlying research motivations driving progress in electronic encapsulation. In conclusion, this comprehensive review casts a discerning eye on the horizon of polymeric materials, paving the way for breakthroughs in the field of bioresorbable electronic systems.