Multifunctional orthopedic implants

First, better smart and multifunctional orthopedic nanomaterials with more capabilities are expected. In the near future, nanomaterial platforms are expected that integrate diagnostic, imaging or monitoring, therapeutic, and tissue regenerative abilities and can be minimal-invasively deployed or administrated. Such nanomaterial systems would complete several tasks that are currently performed individually by different materials or devices with better efficacy and safety. In addition, as implied by the example of a smart hip implant in Section 8.1.1, rapid development of N/MEMS may also contribute to the emergence of novel orthopedic implants based on such novel nanomaterials. 

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