What issue might arise with biomaterials outside their intended use?

Biomaterials are specifically designed and engineered for particular medical applications, such as implants, drug delivery systems, or scaffolds for tissue engineering. When these materials are used outside of their intended applications, several problems can occur that may compromise their effectiveness or even pose risks to patients.

For instance, a biomaterial that was designed to be biocompatible for a specific environment, such as inside the human body, may not exhibit the same properties when placed in a different biological setting. As a result, the material might not interact properly with surrounding tissues, leading to issues such as inflammation, allergic reactions, or rejection by the body's immune system.

Additionally, the mechanical properties of the biomaterial may not be suited to the new application, leading to failure under stress or inadequate performance in delivering drugs. These adverse outcomes underscore the importance of using biomaterials as intended, as deviations can significantly hinder their functionality and safety.