A bioabsorbable polymer is a chemical compound used in orthopedic implant devices that eventually dissolves and is absorbed by the body. Bioabosorbable polymers make suitable material for prosthetics because they can be engineered to dissolve at the same rate as new bone growth.

The polymers also prove to be more durable and elastic than stiff metal alloy bone prosthetics that can interfere with bone re-growth. A drawback to the material is that it can release acids and other toxins as they degrade inside the body resulting in an aseptic inflammatory reaction.