Medical Applications for Shape-memory Alloys (SMA)

Shape-memory alloys (SMA) or smart materials are being increasingly used in medicine. This collection of papers gives a detailed outline of this emerging technology and its current use in clinical practice. Focussing on the design, development, and clinical application of SMAs "Medical applications for shape-memory alloys" highlights recent advances in smart materials technology and issues arising from their clinical use. The following topics are covered: the origin of shape phenomena in metallic materials and a review of the distinct and unique mechanical properties of these alloys; current state of orthopaedic implants made from SMA and future opportunities; examples of SMA use in surgical devices; SMA in orthodontic treatment; use of shape-memory alloys in aneurysmal repair, radiological procedures, and minimal access surgery. This book should be of interest to engineers, instrument engineers, metallurgists, materials scientists - and all those involved in the medical, scientific, and commercial fields.