Nineteen cutting-edge articles by leading practitioners review critical issues concerning biocompatible materials-polymers, metals, and other materials-used in or on the human body. Topics range from biopolymers used in controlled release drug delivery systems and synthetic burn-wound dressings to specific orthopedic devices. Each application-oriented article integrates basic science, engineering and medical experience with discussions of quality control. The contributors offer a wealth of valuable data and experience to materials scientists, research engineers, and academic physicians and surgeons. Their many examples provide rich insights into our experience today with a broad spectrum of modern biomaterials applications.