Polyaryletherketones: Properties and applications in modern medicine

Polyaryletherketones (PAEKs) are a family of durable, multifunctional, thermoplastic biopolymers. This article first provides necessary context and thorough information regarding the mechanical, physical, chemical, crystalline, and shape memory properties of PAEKs as well as critical details regarding manufacturing. Additionally, it provides an update on the clinical and biomedical uses of PAEKs by summarizing the most recent and groundbreaking applications of these thermopolymers. PAEKs have been used clinically in fields including orthopedics, craniofacial and cardiothoracic surgery, as well as cardiovascular and dental medicine. Other applications include tissue engineering, post-surgical antibiotic delivery, antimicrobial applications, anti-cancer drug delivery, and 3D printing. Of importance, PAEKs have comparable mechanical strength and elastic modulus to human bone, which enable PAEKs to serve as a viable alternative to metal-based implants. Given their remarkable properties, and ability to be specifically and rapidly manufactured through 3D printing, PAEKs will continue to be a subject of biomedical research and serve a vital role in medical applications.