Injection resorbable polymer shells for soft tissue augmentation

Biomaterials research is very relevant to developing nations, especially due to the high injury-related burden of disease and congenital defects due to insufficient pre-natal care amongst the poor and disadvantaged. With the rise in human life expectancy, the demand for biomaterials is rapidly growing in the 21st century. Progress in tissue engineering, stem cell research, gene therapy, biotechnology and materials science is believed to largely impact advancements in the field. Worldwide the biomaterials industry is a trillion dollar industry; however, South Africa is a net importer of medical implants and devices.