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Analysis of the bone ultrastructure around biodegradable Mg-xGd implants using small angle X-ray scattering and X-ray
Berit Zeller-Plumhoff1, Carina Malich1, Diana Krüger1
1Division of Metallic Biomaterials, Helmholtz Zentrum Geesthacht, Institute for Materials Research, Max-Planck-Straße 1, 21502 Geesthacht, Germany.
Acta Biomaterialia
|November 18, 2019
Summary
Biodegradable magnesium implants show altered bone ultrastructure compared to titanium and PEEK. This study quantitatively compares bone healing around magnesium-gadolinium alloys, revealing potential magnesium deposition in bone and apatite formation with magnesium and gadolinium.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Research
- Materials Science
Background:
- Magnesium alloys are promising biodegradable metals for bone implants due to their biocompatibility and mechanical similarity to bone.
- Investigating the interaction between degrading magnesium implants and bone ultrastructure is crucial for clinical application.
- Current understanding of bone response to biodegradable magnesium alloys requires further high-resolution investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantitatively compare the bone ultrastructure at the interface of biodegradable Mg-Gd alloys, titanium, and PEEK implants.
- To assess differences in hydroxyapatite mineralization, orientation, and thickness around various implant materials.
- To evaluate the influence of implant degradation on bone ultrastructure over healing time.
Main Methods:
- Utilized two-dimensional small-angle X-ray scattering (2D SAXS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD).
- Analyzed bone ultrastructure at implant interfaces after 4, 8, and 12 weeks of healing.
- Performed quantitative comparisons of hydroxyapatite (HA) crystal lattice spacing and crystallite size.
Main Results:
- Statistically significant differences in HA (310) lattice spacing were found between titanium and Mg-xGd implants (p < 0.05).
- Differences in HA (310) crystallite size were observed between titanium and Mg-5Gd implants, suggesting Mg deposition.
- Significant differences in lattice spacing and crystallite size were noted between the implant degradation layer and surrounding bone for Mg-10Gd (p < 0.001), indicating Mg and Gd incorporation.
Conclusions:
- Biodegradable Mg-Gd alloys induce distinct bone ultrastructural changes compared to titanium and PEEK.
- Evidence suggests potential deposition of magnesium within the bone matrix.
- Apatite formation within the degradation layer contains significant amounts of gadolinium and magnesium, influencing local bone response.
