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Published on: April 15, 2022
Biodegradable metallic materials for orthopaedic implantations: A review
Kelvin W K Yeung1, Karen H M Wong1
1Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
Summary
Biodegradable metals offer an alternative to traditional implants, addressing stress shielding. Magnesium alloys show promise for orthopedic applications, but their rapid degradation requires further research for clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Materials Engineering
Background:
- Non-degradable metallic implants (e.g., stainless steel, titanium alloys) can cause stress shielding due to mechanical property mismatch with bone.
- This complication arises after bone healing, potentially necessitating revision surgeries.
- Biodegradable metallic materials are being explored as alternatives in orthopedics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the development of biodegradable metallic implants.
- To discuss the potential of magnesium alloys as orthopedic implant materials.
- To explore methods for improving the degradation characteristics of magnesium alloys.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of biodegradable metallic implants.
- Analysis of magnesium's properties for orthopedic applications.
- Examination of techniques to control magnesium alloy degradation.
Main Results:
- Magnesium exhibits mechanical properties similar to human bone.
- Magnesium is biodegradable, and its ions are essential for cellular functions.
- Challenges with magnesium alloys include rapid degradation and hydrogen gas release.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable metals, particularly magnesium alloys, present a promising alternative to conventional orthopedic implants.
- Further research is needed to overcome the challenges of rapid degradation and hydrogen gas evolution for successful clinical translation.
- Optimizing degradation rates is crucial for the long-term efficacy of magnesium-based orthopedic implants.
