Shape-Memory Polymers in Cartilage Tissue Engineering

This chapter is dedicated to discussing the possibility and advantageous of using shape-memory polymers in cartilage tissue engineering by providing a supportive scaffold for the regeneration of articular cartilage tissues. Shape-memory polymers are a kind of polymers that can be unlimitedly changed between a permanent and a temporary shape. They have been considered as adaptable candidates to make suitable devices for minimally invasive implantation. These devices can be fixed to a temporary compact state for convenient operation, and they will automatically restore their permanent predetermined shape after implantation. Besides the shape-memory properties, biodegradability can add a fascinating capability to such polymers that can be useful for cartilage tissue engineering. The main advantage of biodegradable shape-memory polymers for cartilage tissue engineering is preventing a second surgery for removing the construct while have the ability to restore their shape while under pressure or loads. These polymers are an emergent class of polymers that facilitate the regeneration process of natural tissues including cartilage.