Related Experiment Videos
Absorbable polyglycolide and polylactide devices for fracture fixation.
H Pihlajamäki1, O Böstman, P Rokkanen
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helinski, Finland.
Surgical Technology International
|May 2, 2003
Summary
Absorbable internal fracture fixation devices eliminate the need for removal surgery. Biodegradable implants made from polyglycolide (PGA) and polylactide (PLA) are increasingly common for fracture treatment.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Conventional metallic implants require secondary removal surgeries.
- Absorbable internal fracture fixation devices offer an alternative to metallic implants.
- The clinical use of biodegradable devices has grown significantly over the last decade.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the advancements and applications of absorbable internal fracture fixation devices.
- To highlight the benefits of biodegradable implants in orthopedic surgery.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical literature on absorbable fracture fixation devices.
- Analysis of materials used in current biodegradable implants.
- Overview of the expanding range of available devices.
Main Results:
- Over 150,000 patients have been treated with absorbable implants globally.
- Polyglycolide (PGA) and polylactide (PLA), particularly polylevolactide (PLLA), are the primary materials used.
- The market now offers a wider variety of biodegradable fixation devices.
Conclusions:
- Absorbable internal fixation devices are a viable and increasingly adopted alternative to metallic implants.
- The use of biodegradable materials like PGA and PLA simplifies fracture treatment by avoiding removal procedures.
- Continued innovation is expanding the options for absorbable osteosynthesis devices.