Ateneo - UPO

Prosthetic Devices:
Examples with functional and clinical overviews
Examples of biomaterials used
Biocompatibility: definition and ISO 10993-1 standard
Integration/interaction between the prosthesis and the affected anatomical area
Brief overview of research evolution from prosthetic materials to regenerative medicine and transplantation

Slides, scientific publications and laboratory protocols, link video, lessons registration. Everything on DIR

Instruct students on concepts such as prostesis, biomaterials, tissue engineering and transplant medicine as new therapeutic approaches to replace damaged tissue or organs. In addition to theoretical and scientific concepts will be given to students indication about how in vitro is possible to study a new biomaterial/prosthesis together with why is important literature critical analysis. Information will be provided on in vitro study techniques for the biocompatibility evaluation.

Knowledge acquired passing biology, anatomy, physiology, pathology and biochemistry tests.

Lectures with support of videos and microscope connected to video projection.
Based on Lab availability and on student demand will be possible to attend 4 hours of biocompatibility lab.

Learning checks during the course

Students with physical disabilities, Learning Disabilities or Special Education Needs can request specific services and tools via the Staff Sviluppo e Coordinamento Carriere e Servizi alle Studentesse e agli Studenti, consulting the University webpage: https://www.uniupo.it/en/services/services-students-physical-or-learning-disabilities

Once they have contacted the University Staff, can refer to the tutor in charge of the course to define the examination modalities, concerning academic aspects.

Student athlete have the possibility of agreeing with the lecturer on a different exam date in the same session

Analisi critica in gruppo classe di un articolo scientifico e capacità di rispondere a domande tecnico/scientifiche derivanti dall'analisi dell'articolo scelto

Prosthetic Devices: From Traditional Biomaterials to Regenerative Medicine.
Prosthetic devices are engineered structures designed to replace, support, or augment damaged anatomical parts. From a functional and clinical standpoint, these devices range from orthopedic and dental implants to cardiovascular tools valves and stent but also uretral aesthetic and sensorial prosthesis. Each device must fulfill specific mechanical and biological roles. Clinically, they aim to restore lost mobility, alleviate chronic pain, and significantly improve the patient's quality of life. The clinical success of any prosthesis depends heavily on the biomaterials selected for its construction, classified into three main categories: Metals (Titanium alloys and cobalt-chromium are preferred for load-bearing orthopedic applications due to their high mechanical strength); Polymers (Polyethylene and silicone are widely used in joint linings and flexible soft-tissue applications); Ceramics (Alumina and zirconia are chosen for their exceptional wear resistance and low friction coefficients). A fundamental requirement for any implantable material is biocompatibility—the ability of a material to perform with an appropriate host response in a specific application without causing systemic toxicity, severe inflammation, or allergic reactions. To ensure safety, all medical devices must strictly comply with the ISO 10993-1 standard. This international framework regulates the biological evaluation of medical devices, dictating the mandatory testing pathways (such as cytotoxicity, irritation, and systemic toxicity tests) before a device can be approved for human use.Once implanted, the long-term viability of a prosthesis depends on the integration and interaction between the device and the surrounding anatomical site. The biological interface undergoes a complex sequence of events, starting with protein adsorption, followed by cellular attachment. In bone tissue, the goal is osseointegration, where the bone grows directly onto the implant surface, creating a permanent structural bond. In soft tissues, minimizing adverse foreign body reactions is vital to prevent encapsulation and device failure. By combining cellular biology, tissue engineering, and smart biomaterials, researchers are now developing biodegradable scaffolds that encourage the body to heal and rebuild its own native tissue. Ultimately, this evolution aims to replace the concept of a permanent artificial implant with a fully biological, living solution.

Basics of prosthesis, tissue engineering and transplant medicine as therapeutic approaches for replacement of damaged biological tissues. Information on in vitro study techniques and the ability to choose the most suitable techniques for the study of a new biomaterial. Critical analysis of literature from both a theoretical and technical point of view. The student should have learned curiosity and interest in the proposed scientific field with the ability to discuss with the classroom and the teacher about limits and strengths of scientific papers examined