Polyurethane Foams in Medical Devices: A Brief Review

作者：Jiacheng Xu, Xiaojing Dai, Yang Yang, Jianwei Chen, Lijing Han, Ruoyu Zhang · 发表于：Macromolecular Chemistry and Physics · 年份：2026 · DOI：10.1002/macp.202500449 · 被引用次数：4 · 研究领域：Polymer composites and self-healing、Polymer Foaming and Composites、Carbon dioxide utilization in catalysis

ABSTRACT Unlike dense bulk materials, the hollow structure of foam materials brings additional functionality and applications. Benefiting from the excellent biocompatibility of polyurethane, polyurethane foams have found numerous applications in the biomedical field. In terms of mechanical properties, beyond the selection of molecular structure, the performance of polyurethane foams can be effectively regulated by the pore structure. Functionally, in addition to achieving in vivo degradation, shape memory, and mechanical support like bulk polyurethane, the hollow pore structure enables critical capabilities such as exudate absorption and drug loading. Moreover, when used as a scaffold, the hollow structure is conducive to cell proliferation, growth, and migration, thereby facilitating tissue growth and repair. However, given the toxicity concerns associated with traditional isocyanates, non‐isocyanate polyurethane foams (NIPUFs) are emerging as a crucial direction for the next generation of safer biomaterials. This review mainly summarizes the recent developments of thermoplastic polyurethane foams in the fields of dressings, scaffolds, embolization, and drug delivery. Significantly, it highlights the unique biomedical advantages of NIPUFs, outlining their preparation methods and preliminary applications as a promising alternative to conventional polyurethanes, with potential benefits in terms of improved sustainability and reduced carbon footprint.