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Biological Compatibility Profile on Biomaterials for Bone Regeneration
Published on: November 16, 2018
[Foreign body reaction to materials implanted as biocompatible for internal fixation]
Alexander Thiele1, U Bilkenroth, M Bloching
1Klinik für Hals-, Nasen- und Ohrenheilkunde, Kopf- und Halschirurgie der Martin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg, Magdeburger Strasse 12, 06112 Halle/Saale. alexander.thiele@medizin.uni-halle.de
HNO
|February 7, 2007
Summary
Foreign body reactions can occur with resorbable fixation materials, even with biocompatible copolymers like poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and polyglycolic acid (PGA). Patients undergoing facial fracture repair require detailed discussion regarding this potential risk.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomaterials science
- Plastic and reconstructive surgery
Background:
- Resorbable materials are increasingly used for internal fixation in orthopedic and reconstructive surgery.
- Copolymers of poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and polyglycolic acid (PGA) are favored for their perceived biocompatibility.
- Foreign body reactions (FBRs) are a known complication, occurring in 0-47% of cases.
Observation:
- A patient treated for a midfacial fracture using an 82%-18% PLLA-PGA resorbable fixation system developed a foreign body reaction.
- The FBR manifested 22 months post-implantation.
- This case highlights a potential delayed complication despite the use of generally well-tolerated biomaterials.
Findings:
- Foreign body reactions can occur even with advanced resorbable copolymers like PLLA-PGA.
- The incidence of FBRs with resorbable materials necessitates careful consideration.
- Facial reconstruction carries a specific risk profile for FBRs due to the anatomical location.
Implications:
- Awareness of FBR risk is crucial when using resorbable fixation systems, particularly in craniofacial applications.
- Preoperative patient counseling must comprehensively address the potential for foreign body reactions.
- Further research into long-term biocompatibility and FBR mechanisms in resorbable implants is warranted.
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