Introduction to biomaterials for spinal surgery

Spinal disease is one of the most common causes of low back pain. This chapter will consider the wide range of materials employed in the field of spinal surgery to overcome drawbacks related to normal aging, trauma and pathology that could compromise the quality of life. Although 'conventional' materials such as metals, ceramics and polymers have been considered for spinal applications, over the past years research has focused on the development of polymer-based composite materials to design advanced devices. Accordingly, this chapter will first deal with the different classes of conventional materials, starting from their structure and properties, highlighting their specific applications in the field of disc arthroplasty and nucleus pulposus replacement. Finally, basic concepts and considerations regarding the importance of designing and developing polymer-based composite materials will be briefly discussed.