Clinical Products and Further Devices of Phosphates and Borates

Abstract

Phosphate and borate glasses have gained special attention over recent years due to their intrinsic properties regarding tailorable dissolution behaviour and relatively low processing temperatures, making them attractive alternatives to the well-known silicate bioactive glasses. Although most of the studies have focused on the application of bioactive glasses in bone-tissue regeneration, increasing research has been reported on the use of phosphate and borate glasses for soft-tissue repair, including wound healing and nerve regeneration. Similarly, processing through the sol–gel method has allowed these glasses to act as drug-delivery carriers and has opened up the possibility of enhancing the therapeutic effect of these materials. This chapter provides an overview of the research progress and current applications of phosphate and borate bioactive glasses in the biomedical field.