Bridging Research and Application: Zn-Based Alloys as Next-Generation Biodegradable Orthopedic Implants

Orthopedic implants provide structural support, loading-bearing, or motion preservation to ensure surgical success. Zinc (Zn)-based alloys have emerged as promising candidates for next-generation orthopedic implants due to their suitable degradation rate, excellent mechanical properties, antibacterial activity, and complete degradability. However, the clinical application of Zn-based alloys is hindered by significant limitations, including mechanical instability, threshold-dependent bioactivity, an inadequate balance between antimicrobial and osteogenic effects, and variability in stress-induced degradation. This comprehensive review summarizes the feasibility of Zn-based alloys for orthopedic implants, focusing on the biocompatibility, biodegradation behavior, mechanical properties, and interactions with the resident cells. The engineering methods to modify properties of Zn-based materials are also discussed, and their translational applications are highlighted, while addressing the remaining challenges for future investigation. Collectively, advancing research in Zn-based alloys would pave the way for innovative orthopedic solutions that enhance patient outcomes.