Self-healing (bio)materials represent a cornerstone in the transition towards a circular economy in healthcare. These materials possess the remarkable ability to autonomously repair damage, thereby extending the lifespan of medical devices, implants, sensors, wound dressings, and drug delivery systems. By extending the lifespan of biomedical products, they can significantly reduce waste generation and minimize the environmental impact associated with frequent replacement. In addition, the integration of self-healing properties into drug delivery systems can enhance their efficacy and reduce the need for frequent administration, resulting in a more sustainable healthcare system. Notably, self-healing polymers and hydrogels have the potential to improve the durability and lifespan of wound dressings, providing extended protection and support throughout the healing process. The development and implementation of self-healing biomaterials signify a shift towards a more environmentally conscious and resource-efficient healthcare sector. By adopting a circular approach, healthcare facilities can optimize the use of resources throughout the product lifecycle. This includes designing medical devices with self-healing capabilities, implementing efficient recycling systems, and promoting the development of new materials from recycled sources. Such an approach not only reduces the environmental footprint of the healthcare sector but also contributes to a more sustainable and resilient supply chain. The adoption of self-healing (bio)materials offers numerous benefits for the healthcare industry. These materials not only can reduce the environmental impact of medical practices by extending the lifecycle of products but also enhance patient safety and treatment outcomes. The integration of self-healing materials in the healthcare industry holds promise for supporting a more circular economy by extending the product lifespan, reducing waste generation, and fostering sustainable practices in medical settings. However, additional explorations are warranted to optimize the performance and stability of self-healing (bio)materials, ensuring their long-term effectiveness. One of the primary challenges in the adoption of self-healing materials is the cost associated with their production. Notably, the exploration of specific self-healing mechanisms will be crucial in expanding their applications. This review examines the intersection of self-healing materials, biomedicine, and the circular economy, focusing on the challenges, advantages, and future perspectives associated with their implementation.

中文翻译：

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生物医学和循环经济中的自修复材料


自愈（生物）材料是医疗保健领域向循环经济转型的基石。这些材料具有卓越的自主修复损伤的能力，从而延长医疗设备、植入物、传感器、伤口敷料和药物输送系统的使用寿命。通过延长生物医学产品的使用寿命，可以显着减少废物的产生，并最大限度地减少频繁更换对环境的影响。此外，将自愈特性整合到药物输送系统中可以提高其功效并减少频繁给药的需要，从而形成更可持续的医疗保健系统。值得注意的是，自修复聚合物和水凝胶有可能提高伤口敷料的耐用性和使用寿命，在整个愈合过程中提供扩展的保护和支持。自愈生物材料的开发和实施标志着医疗保健行业向更加环保和资源节约型的转变。通过采用循环方法，医疗机构可​​以在整个产品生命周期中优化资源的使用。这包括设计具有自愈能力的医疗设备、实施高效的回收系统以及促进回收资源新材料的开发。这种方法不仅减少了医疗保健行业的环境足迹，而且有助于建立更具可持续性和弹性的供应链。自愈（生物）材料的采用为医疗保健行业带来了许多好处。这些材料不仅可以通过延长产品的生命周期来减少医疗实践对环境的影响，还可以提高患者的安全和治疗效果。 自修复材料在医疗保健行业的整合有望通过延长产品寿命、减少废物产生和促进医疗环境中的可持续实践来支持更加循环的经济。然而，需要进行更多的探索来优化自愈（生物）材料的性能和稳定性，确保其长期有效性。采用自修复材料的主要挑战之一是与其生产相关的成本。值得注意的是，探索特定的自愈机制对于扩大其应用至关重要。本综述探讨了自修复材料、生物医学和循环经济的交叉点，重点关注与其实施相关的挑战、优势和未来前景。