Polymer-based biomaterials and their applications in tissue adhesives

Tissue engineering has evolved from the field of Biomaterials development to the technological advancements in processing and fabrication techniques. The primary goal of this field is to assemble functional constructs that repair, maintain or improve the efficacy of damaged tissues. This study specifically focuses on a crucial part of this field: surgical sealants and tissue adhesives used prominently in the medical sector. Tissue adhesive is a promising biomaterial that can be used reliably in surgical procedures to close wounds, hemostasis, wound healing, and other localised applications. An ideal adhesive material is expected to have a perfect balance of mechanical strength such as shear strength, burst strength, compressive and tensile fracture strength, biocompatibility, ease of applicability, and most importantly, adhesion or bonding strength with the specific tissue. These characteristics have led to the search for a more promising adhesive biomaterial; however, studies are still trying to investigate different combinations as the currently available alternatives in the market tend to offer a feeble adhesion strength comparatively. Therefore, this review study provides a clear insight into all the recently discovered challenges and upcoming next-generation tissue adhesives in the clinical market.