A bioresorbable molding mesh for impaction grafting revision hip surgery

Impacted morselized allografts are used to treat bone loss in revision surgery. This technique depends on adequate mechanical support of the graft. Metal support devices function well, but there are disadvantages associated with the use of steel meshes. In this cadaveric, surgical simulation model we investigated the surgical and mechanical suitability of a bioresorbable molding mesh for use in impaction grafting revision surgery. Surgical feasibility was assessed, and mechanical deformation of the mesh during the surgical procedure and postoperative cyclic loading of the specimens were measured with strain gauges. All meshes were surgically usable. The exterior surface deformation of the meshes during the surgical procedure and postoperative mechanical loading did not exceed 4500 microm/m, although the meshes were not damaged in a four-point bending test in which deformations higher than 19,000 microm/m were reached. Therefore, results of this study suggest that this type of bioresorbable mesh seems to have sufficient initial mechanical properties to warrant additional preclinical in vivo study.