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Bioabsorbable fixation in orthopaedic surgery and traumatology
P U Rokkanen1, O Böstman, E Hirvensalo
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Helsinki University, Central Hospital, Finland.
Biomaterials
|November 9, 2000
Summary
Bioabsorbable internal fixation devices offer a safe and effective alternative for fracture treatment, avoiding removal surgeries and associated benefits. Over 90% of patients experienced uneventful recovery with these advanced orthopedic implants.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Engineering
Background:
- Bioabsorbable internal fixation devices were clinically introduced in 1984 for extremity fractures and osteotomies.
- Over 3200 patients have been treated with self-reinforced bioabsorbable alpha-hydroxy polyesters since 1984.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the clinical outcomes and complications associated with bioabsorbable internal fixation devices.
- To assess the efficacy of these devices in various orthopedic applications, including fractures and osteotomies.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a range of bioabsorbable devices including rods, screws, tacks, plugs, arrows, and wires.
- Applied devices in diverse orthopedic procedures, with a focus on malleolar fractures and pediatric transphyseal fixation.
- Monitored patient outcomes, complications, and long-term effects.
Main Results:
- Over 90% of patients experienced an uneventful postoperative course.
- Complications included bacterial wound infection (4%) and fixation failure (4%), with re-operation not always necessary.
- Non-infectious foreign-body reactions occurred in 2% of patients with polyglycolide implants, but not with polylactide implants.
Conclusions:
- Bioabsorbable internal fixation devices provide effective fracture and osteotomy management, eliminating the need for removal procedures.
- These devices offer financial and psychological advantages, with potential applications in open fractures and infected sites.