Scientific research in the field of tissue engineering
has grown during last 10 years more rapidly than in any
other discipline of biomaterials or medical devices. It
is assumed that in the future tissue engineering will grow
to a third cornerstone of medical treatment comparable in
significance to pharmacology and surgery.
Tissue engineering is a typical interdisciplinary approach
to augment, replace or grow new tissues and organs. Ashammakhi
and Ferreti have compiled to this volume information of
three application areas: cartilage, bone and fat.
Tissue engineering of joint cartilage and meniscus has
been studied already over 15 years and first corrercial
procedures are already on markets. However, optimal techniques
are still to be developed. This volume introduces the current
status and visions for future to receive optimal healing.
Animation is introduced as a new educational tool to illustrate
new surgical techniques.
The problems of engineering of bone are approached from
the general basis. Also the role of morphogenesis signals,
like growth factors, is reviewed in several chapters. Applications
are examined in the case of load bearing bones, cranio-maxillofacial
and dento-alveolar skeletons. Animations are also used to
illustrate the building of long bones and cranial bone.
This book gives a coherent summary of certain central questions
of bone and cartilage tissue engineering and is therefore
a valuable tool for research and development scientists
and engineers, who want to contribute actively to the future
development of tissue engineering. The animations are new,
interesting option to support educational activities.
P. Törmälä
Academy Professor
Tampere University of Technology
Tampere, Finland
