Soft tissue applications of biocomposites

In this chapter, an overview is presented of the role of composite biomaterials as substitutes for soft tissue repair. In particular, those technological solutions where either biopolymers or synthetic biocompatible, biomimetic polymers have been used are highlighted. The potential of these biomaterials to fulfil clinical needs is underpinned by an overview of the composition and properties of the main extracellular matrix components. This overview allows the reader to critically assess the ability of the currently available composite biomaterials to perform in a clinical scenario. Examples of clinical applications are given in which composite biomaterials are fundamental to soft tissue aided repair. The clinical problems that arise when their use has been neglected, described.