Biodegradable materials: Applications and advances of magnesium alloys in bone defects

Bone defects represent a significant clinical challenge with diverse etiologies, including but not limited to tumors, trauma, necrosis, and congenital deformities, imposing substantial patient suffering and socioeconomic burdens. In recent years, novel approaches for bone defect repair have been continuously explored. Biodegradable synthetic materials, particularly those capable of gradual decomposition during tissue regeneration processes, are recognized as ideal candidates for bone repair implants. Natural or synthetic polymer-based materials have been extensively employed in osteochondral repair due to their favorable biocompatibility. Furthermore, biodegradable magnesium (Mg)-based metals constitute another crucial category of bone substitutes. Mg alloys demonstrate unique advantages, including tunable degradation rates, excellent biocompatibility, appropriate mechanical strength, and remarkable osteogenic potential, positioning Mg-containing implants as a pivotal direction in bone regenerative medicine. However, clinical applications of Mg alloys still face challenges such as rapid degradation kinetics and insufficient osteogenic performance. Further investigation into advanced application strategies for Mg alloys holds significant clinical implications for bone defect therapeutics.