What is one of the primary purposes of using metal as a biomaterial?

The primary purpose of using metal as a biomaterial is often related to its application in prosthesis. Metals, such as titanium and its alloys, possess excellent mechanical properties, including high strength, durability, and fatigue resistance, making them ideal for load-bearing implants. In prosthetic applications, metals are used to replace or support a missing limb or joint, as they can effectively withstand the mechanical demands of normal physiological activity. Moreover, certain metals like titanium also exhibit biocompatibility, allowing them to integrate with bone tissue through a process called osseointegration, which is crucial for the stability and longevity of prosthetic devices.

While metals can also be used in dental applications or as part of scaffolding in tissue engineering, their most prominent role in the context of biomaterials is largely centered around prosthetic devices that require robust and reliable performance in the body.