Molybdenum as a Potential Biocompatible and Resorbable Material for Osteosynthesis in Craniomaxillofacial Surgery-An...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Materials Engineering

Background:

• Traditional osteosynthesis materials like titanium and stainless steel require hardware removal surgery.
• Current resorbable materials (polymers, magnesium) have limitations including adverse reactions and unpredictable degradation.
• There is a need for novel biodegradable materials for craniomaxillofacial surgery implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate molybdenum as a potential biodegradable osteosynthesis material for craniomaxillofacial applications.
• To assess the biocompatibility and degradation behavior of molybdenum and its alloys.
• To evaluate molybdenum's suitability as a replacement for non-resorbable implants.

Main Methods:

• In vitro cytotoxicity assays performed on human and mouse fibroblasts according to ISO Norm 10993-5.
• Long-term immersion tests (up to 6 months) conducted on molybdenum sheet metal.
• Evaluation of mechanical stability and degradation uniformity of molybdenum implants.

Main Results:

• Pure molybdenum and molybdenum rhenium alloys demonstrated no cytotoxicity.
• Molybdenum exhibited sufficient mechanical stability for implant applications over a 6-month period.
• The material showed a uniform degradation pattern during long-term immersion tests.

Conclusions:

• Molybdenum is a promising candidate for developing new resorbable osteosynthesis materials.
• Its biocompatibility and controlled degradation profile support its use in craniomaxillofacial surgery.
• Molybdenum-based implants could eliminate the need for secondary hardware removal surgeries.