Natural polymers have always been used in medicine. However, the development of synthetic polymers for use in medicine has occurred only in the last few decades. The successful applications of these synthetic polymers in medicine depend mainly on their physico-chemical and special characteristics such as biological compatibility with tissues, stability, durability and elasticity. This book deals mainly with the kinetic and structural aspects which are essential for the realization of these characteristics. The authors have examined in detail the processes of diffusion, chemical and biological diintegration, changes in various structural levels induced by chemical and biological media, and the problems of simultaneous influence of these media and mechanical strains on polymers used in medicine. Researchers in the field of polymer physics and chemistry, as well as those who are working with applications of polymers in medicine and biology should find this book useful.

Natural polymers have always been used in medicine. However, the development of synthetic polymers for use in medicine has occurred only in the last few decades. The successful applications of these synthetic polymers in medicine depend mainly on their physico-chemical and special characteristics such as biological compatibility with tissues, stability, durability and elasticity. This book deals mainly with the kinetic and structural aspects which are essential for the realization of these characteristics. The authors have examined in detail the processes of diffusion, chemical and biological diintegration, changes in various structural levels induced by chemical and biological media, and the problems of simultaneous influence of these media and mechanical strains on polymers used in medicine. Researchers in the field of polymer physics and chemistry, as well as those who are working with applications of polymers in medicine and biology should find this book useful.