The application of biodegradable materials in orthopedics has revolutionized the management of bone and soft tissue injuries by offering temporary support and eliminating the need for secondary implant removal surgeries. This paper reviews the types, properties, and clinical performance of biodegradable polymers, ceramics, and composites in orthopedic applications. The advantages of biodegradability, such as reduced long-term complications and better tissue regeneration, are evaluated alongside challenges like mechanical strength limitations and degradation kinetics. Recent advances in material science, including bioactive coatings, nanocomposites, and 3D printing technologies, are also discussed. The future perspectives point toward smart biomaterials with controlled degradation profiles and biofunctional responses tailored to specific orthopedic needs.

Biodegradable materials, orthopedics, polymers, bone regeneration, implant degradation, bioresorbable scaffolds, composite biomaterials, biodegradable ceramics, tissue engineering.

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