Design strategies for self-repairing materials and their applications in next-generation long-term bio-implants

In biomedical engineering, the pursuit of innovative solutions to improve the longevity and performance of bio-implantable system has fueled extensive research and interest. Among the challenges in this field, the susceptibility of soft materials to wear, tear, and degradation remains a critical issue. Recent advancements, however, have unveiled a transformative approach: the integration of self-healing mechanisms into these materials. Inspired by nature’s regenerative processes, self-healing technology represents a paradigm shift in material science, offering the potential to enhance the resilience and durability of bio-implantable devices. Researchers have developed diverse strategies to achieve this, encompassing novel chemical formulations and structural designs that enable soft materials to autonomously repair damage during use. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of self-healing technologies for soft materials, highlighting cutting-edge advancements, underlying principles, and practical implementations. By exploring the integration of self-healing properties into bio-implantable devices, we discuss their potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce medical costs, and address critical challenges in healthcare. Through this investigation, we aim to underscore the pivotal role of self-healing materials in shaping the future of biomedical devices.