Intelligent biomaterials for cardiovascular applications

Cardiovascular disease remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and as such, research in cardiovascular medicine is continuously evolving. Recent advances in technology have created opportunities for improving the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular disease. This review article summarizes the use of innovative polymeric biomaterials for various cardiovascular applications, highlighting promising results obtained in the past five years. The review begins by discussing the use of artificial blood vessels and coronary artery stents with biosensors for coronary artery disease management. Additionally, the studies on cardiac patches for heart failure management are evaluated. The review also covers recent advancements in artificial intelligence and real-time health monitoring for diagnosing cardiovascular conditions such as arrhythmias and structural heart disease. New catheters for epicardial mapping and stretchable conducting polymers for surface electrodes have improved diagnostic capabilities. The review also examines advancements in engineering with intelligent biomaterials for unique and sustainable treatment options. This includes piezoelectric and triboelectric nanogenerators for improved cardiovascular devices, reducing the need for battery changes and the risk of infections. Overall, the review provides a comprehensive analysis of innovative polymeric biomaterials for various cardiovascular diagnostic and treatment modalities. It summarizes recent studies that demonstrate the potential of these materials for improving patient outcomes and ultimately reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease. As the field of cardiovascular medicine continues to evolve, these advancements may pave the way for further progress in the diagnosis and management of cardiovascular disease.