Biomaterials

Biomaterials, refers to the study of materials which are biocompatible with the human body and so suitable for use as implants or prostheses. They are used to replace or restore function to a body tissue and is continuously or intermittently in contact with body fluids.

Bovine condyle from which bone cubes are cut to produce bone replacement materials.

Scanning electron micrograph of bovine cancellous bone after processing.

Bovine cancellous bone after processing. Holes at side indicate where it has been trephined for producing bone cores to insert into bone defects in clinical studies.

An electron micrograph of a plasma sprayed hydroxyapatite coating on titanium metal. The hydroxyapatite feedstock powder was derived from reprecipitated New Zealand animal bone (deer/sheep/cow). This micrograph shows the heterogeneity of the coating surface.

Series of X-rays showing the progressive healing of an aneurysmal bone cyst in a dog's paw filled with a mixture of native bone tissue and cancellous bovine bone graft developed at Waikato University. As can be seen the initial bone void in the paw is filled progressively over time. Acknowledgement for this photo is made to Mr Andrew Worth, Veterinary Surgeon, Massey University, Palmerston North who carried out this study in collaboration with Waikato University.