Biodegradable implants can be used in different applications including orthopedics, sports medicine, cranio-maxillofacial surgery, bone grafting, spine surgery and dental surgery. There are occasions when metal implants have to be removed, for example, due to palpability, patient sensitivity, imaging interference or infection. In addition, metal can be too stiff for optimal healing in some surgical applications. Stress shielding may result in bone atrophy and osteoporosis but a degrading polymer implant gradually loads the bone, therefore assisting in the healing process. Patients, when given a choice, usually voice a preference for a biodegradable implant rather than for one that remains permanently in their body, or for enduring a removal procedure.