Transplants

As we have seen in the previous chapters, biomaterials have many uses in aiding healing, restoring a lost form or function, and in correction of deformity. The limitations of artificial materials become apparent when we realize that only the simplest mechanical, structural, optical, and chemical functions can be assumed by nonliving materials. Functions that can only be performed by living tissues can be restored either by transplanting a new tissue or a new organ or by regenerating the tissue or organ that has lost its function. In this chapter, transplants are considered.