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Resorbable continuous-fibre reinforced polymers for osteosynthesis.
M Dauner1, H Planck, L Caramaro
1Institut für Textil- und Verfahrenstechnik (ITV), Koerschtalstrasse 26, D-73770 Denkendorf, Germany.
Journal of Materials Science. Materials in Medicine
|September 7, 2004
Summary
Researchers developed resorbable osteosynthesis devices using continuous-fibre reinforced poly-L-lactide. While biocompatible, fast degradation due to residual monomers requires further investigation for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Polymer Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Development of resorbable osteosynthesis devices is crucial for improved patient outcomes.
- Continuous-fibre reinforcement offers potential for enhanced mechanical properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop processing technologies for continuous-fibre reinforced resorbable osteosynthesis devices.
- To synthesize and characterize poly-L-lactide (P-L-LA) and poly-L-DL-lactide (P-L-DL-LA) for device fabrication.
- To evaluate the in vitro and in vivo performance of the developed devices.
Main Methods:
- Melt-spun P-L-LA fibres (800 MPa) embedded in amorphous P-L-DL-LA 70:30 matrix via compression moulding.
- Ethylene oxide sterilization of samples.
- In vitro and in vivo testing, including non-functional animal studies in rabbits.
Main Results:
- Achieved a satisfying bending modulus of 6 GPa.
- Observed 50% strength retention after ten weeks.
- Demonstrated fast degradation, leading to 70% resorption after one year in rabbit studies.
- Confirmed good biocompatibility with only mild inflammatory reactions during resorption.
Conclusions:
- The developed processing method allows for fibre orientation, a key advantage for osteosynthesis devices.
- Fast degradation, potentially linked to residual monomers, necessitates further research.
- Future efforts should focus on reducing initial monomer content for controlled resorption.