5. Conclusion

Biodegradation of biomaterials refers to any alteration occurring in the biological environment in which they are used. These alterations concern both their structural integrity and their functionality in a specific biological environment.

Since the conditions of use and the very nature of biomaterials are extremely diverse, any generalization is risky. Indeed, many mechanisms are still poorly understood. Figure 27 shows the overall corrosion resistance of the most common biomaterials in relation to the tissue reactions they can induce.