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A Bioinspired Orthopedic Biomaterial with Tunable Mechanical Properties Based on Sintered Titanium Fibers
Matthias Rüger1,2, Andreas Martin Seitz3, Katja Nuss4
1Department of Paediatric Orthopedics and Traumatology, University Children´s Hospital, University of Zurich, Zurich, 8032, Switzerland.
Advanced Healthcare Materials
|October 17, 2022
Summary
A novel fiber-based biometal with adjustable mechanical properties shows promise for orthopedic implants. This material reduces bone strain, promotes osseointegration, and enhances implant survival, offering a potential solution to aseptic loosening.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Materials Science
Background:
- Inadequate mechanical compliance in orthopedic implants leads to bone interface strain and aseptic loosening.
- A fiber-based biometal with adjustable anisotropic mechanical properties is proposed to mitigate these issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a fiber-based biometal with tunable anisotropic mechanical properties for orthopedic applications.
- To assess the material's mechanical performance, biocompatibility, and osseointegration capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Manufacturing of six different titanium fiber-based biometal topologies.
- Mechanical testing under compression, 3-point bending, and torsion.
- In vitro biocompatibility testing with murine osteoblasts.
- In vivo osseointegration assessment in a sheep metaphyseal trepanation model using micro-computed tomography and histomorphometry.
Main Results:
- The biometal exhibited compressive yield strengths up to 50 MPa with anisotropy correlating to fiber layout.
- Porosity significantly influenced mechanical properties; 75% porosity samples were stronger and stiffer than 85% porosity samples.
- Optimal fiber orientations were identified for maximizing bending and shear moduli.
- In vitro tests confirmed uncompromised biocompatibility, and in vivo studies showed robust osseointegration after 8 weeks.
Conclusions:
- The developed fiber-based biometal possesses anisotropic mechanical properties comparable to bone.
- The material demonstrates excellent osteoconductivity and shows feasibility for orthopedic implant applications.
- This advanced biometal offers a potential solution to improve orthopedic implant survival by reducing interface strain and promoting bone remodeling.
