Bioabsorbable zinc alloys for use in urological surgery

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Urologic Surgery
• Materials Engineering

Background:

• Non-absorbable surgical clips in urologic procedures pose risks of urinary tract complications and infections.
• Development of bioabsorbable alternatives is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel bioabsorbable metal alloy for urologic surgical applications.
• To assess the degradability and biocompatibility of zinc-magnesium-strontium (Zn-Mg-Sr) alloys in the urinary tract.

Main Methods:

• Four types of Zn-Mg-Sr alloys were prepared and tested for degradability, strength, and ductility.
• Alloys were implanted in rat bladders for up to 12 weeks and in pig bladders for 24 weeks.
• Evaluations included degradation rate, stone adhesion, tissue changes, and blood chemistry analysis.

Main Results:

• Zn-Mg-Sr alloys demonstrated significant degradability, with rates of 6.51% at 12 weeks (rats) and 3.72% at 24 weeks (pigs).
• No adverse effects such as stone adhesion or significant changes in blood zinc or magnesium levels were observed.
• Animal studies confirmed safe degradation and successful wound healing in bladders.

Conclusions:

• Zn-Mg-Sr alloys are safe and effective for use in animal models, showing good degradability in the urinary tract.
• These alloys are easily processed into various shapes, including staples, indicating potential utility in robotic urologic surgery.