Comparison of Different Bone Cement Formulations Containing Boron Derivatives

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Orthopedic Engineering
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) bone cement is crucial for prosthetic implant stabilization.
• Existing PMMA cements face challenges: poor biocompatibility, infection susceptibility, and limited mechanical strength.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance PMMA bone cement properties by incorporating boron derivatives (boric acid, borax pentahydrate, borax decahydrate).
• To evaluate the impact of these boron derivatives on the antibacterial, biocompatibility, and mechanical characteristics of PMMA bone cement.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of PMMA bone cement with three boron derivatives.
• Characterization using SEM, FT-IR, DSC, and mechanical testing.
• Assessment of cellular viability, antibacterial efficacy, and biocompatibility via hemolysis assay.

Main Results:

• Borax decahydrate improved biomechanical properties by reducing porosity.
• Borax pentahydrate showed benefits, but boric acid yielded the most optimal outcomes.
• 3% boric acid formulation enhanced cellular viability up to 14 days and demonstrated superior antibacterial and biocompatibility profiles.

Conclusions:

• Boric acid is a promising additive for developing advanced PMMA bone cements.
• The enhanced PMMA bone cement exhibits potential for improved orthopedic applications.
• Further research is warranted to explore the full potential of these boron-modified bone cements.