This module provides an overview of the immune system including non-specific and specific defences of the body, cells and tissues of the immune response; antigens, antibodies, T and B cell responses, the complement system and its importance in inflammation and immunology; hypersensitivity and immunological disease (HIV; cancer). The module also covers processes involved in normal wound healing, the development of the immune system with reference to why foetal wounds may heal without scarring. The impact of implanted biomaterials on wound healing is then discussed including possible reactions to foreign bodies such as wear particles and solid materials. Following on from the bacteriology lectures in Semester 1, students are introduced to diseases which are caused by a combination of the host immune response and opportunistic pathogenic bacteria e.g. periodontitis. Finally clinical lecturers provide instruction on placement and the healing time for specific patients, demonstrating clinical implications of immunology and wound healing.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Demonstrate a basic understanding of the immune system;
Describe the processes involved in normal wound healing;
Discuss the impact of the presence of an implant on wound healing and describe the various possible reactions to particulate and solid materials in relation to infection prevention and treatment;
Discuss host-pathogen interactions in the development of periodontitis;
Describe how a implant is placed, the surgical options and patient factors that influence the healing process around a implant;
Discuss potential complications and treatment outcomes following placement of a dental implant.
Course work: 50%, comprising:
Scientific Presentation 15%
Mini research proposal 25%
Lay presentation 10%
Other
None
Reading List
Ratner B. Biomaterials Science, 3rd Edition. An Introduction to Materials in Medicine. 2012. AP. Print Book ISBN : 9780123746269. eBook ISBN : 9780080877808