Injectable, Solvent Free Strontium Carbonate Poly(Allyl Glycidyl Ether Succinate) Composite Networks for Vertebral
Russell E Thompson1, Maddison I Segal2, Stephanie Sipics3
1Department of Radiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, 27710, USA.
Advanced Healthcare Materials
|June 18, 2025
Summary
A new polymer system, poly(allyl glycidyl ether succinate) (PAGES), offers a solvent-free solution for vertebral augmentation. This PAGES composite, enhanced with strontium carbonate (SrCO3), improves bone strength and promotes cell growth, showing promise for treating chronic back pain.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Vertebral compression fractures cause significant chronic back pain, especially in elderly populations.
- Current vertebral augmentation methods often use poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) bone cement.
- There is a need for improved bone augmentation materials with better biocompatibility and mechanical properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel solvent-free polymer system for vertebral augmentation.
- To evaluate the mechanical properties and biocompatibility of the developed polymer composite.
- To assess the efficacy of the new material in enhancing vertebral strength.
Main Methods:
- A new polymer, poly(allyl glycidyl ether succinate) (PAGES), was synthesized for in situ crosslinking via thiol-ene click chemistry.
- Strontium carbonate (SrCO3) was incorporated into the PAGES matrix to create a composite material.
- Mechanical testing (compressive strength) and in vitro cell studies (osteoblast proliferation and differentiation) were performed.
- Ex vivo experiments using a surrogate rabbit vertebral model were conducted to evaluate augmentation efficacy.
Main Results:
- The PAGES system demonstrated tunable in situ polymerization with cure times between 17-53 minutes at 37°C.
- The addition of SrCO3 significantly increased the ultimate compressive strength of the PAGES composite to 4.4 ± 0.4 MPa.
- SrCO3 incorporation enhanced osteoblast proliferation and differentiation on the PAGES composite surface.
- In ex vivo testing, the PAGES composite successfully increased the compressive strength of fractured vertebrae.
Conclusions:
- Poly(allyl glycidyl ether succinate) (PAGES) represents a promising solvent-free alternative for vertebral augmentation.
- The SrCO3-PAGES composite exhibits enhanced mechanical strength and favorable biological responses.
- This novel material has significant potential for improving outcomes in treating vertebral compression fractures.
