Resorbéd

Resorbéd is a term primarily used in the context of biomaterials and medical devices to describe the process by which a synthetic or natural material is gradually absorbed or dissolved by the body after implantation or application. This phenomenon is particularly relevant in fields such as orthopedics, dentistry, and tissue engineering, where temporary scaffolds or implants are employed to support healing before being naturally broken down and eliminated.

The process of resorption typically involves enzymatic degradation or hydrolysis, where the body’s cells, such as macrophages or osteoblasts, break down the material into smaller components that can be metabolized or excreted. Common materials that undergo resorption include certain types of biodegradable polymers, such as polylactic acid (PLA), polyglycolic acid (PGA), and their copolymers (PLGA), as well as natural substances like collagen or calcium phosphate-based ceramics.

Resorbéd materials are designed to offer mechanical support during tissue regeneration while minimizing the need for surgical removal. For example, resorbable sutures dissolve over time, eliminating the need for suture removal, and resorbable bone plates assist in fracture healing before being absorbed by the body. The rate of resorption can vary depending on factors such as material composition, molecular weight, and the specific biological environment.

While resorbable materials offer advantages in terms of convenience and reduced patient burden, their performance depends on achieving a balance between sufficient mechanical strength during the healing phase and controlled degradation to avoid complications such as premature failure or inflammatory responses. Research continues to refine these materials to optimize their properties for various clinical applications.