Biodegradable elastomers for biomedical applications

Synthetic biodegradable elastomers, such as polyesters and polyurethanes have revolutionized biomedical therapeutic strategies and devices. Driven by innovations in chemical synthesis and processing technologies, a series of biodegradable elastomers and corresponding devices with controllable properties and various functionalities have been developed. In this review, we have summarized the recent progress in synthesis, process technologies, and biomedical applications of biodegradable elastomers. Particular emphasis is on the molecular design for biodegradability, elasticity, and the newly developed functionalities including self-healing, antibacterial, fluorescence, and shape-memory of biodegradable polyesters and polyurethane as well as their corresponding processing strategies. Subsequently, the recent progress of biodegradable elastomers in different biomedical applications is reviewed. A comprehensive conclusion and outlook pointing out emerging research directions, future challenges and potential solutions complete this work.