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Ion-Selective Sensors for Orthopaedic Applications: A Systematic Review
Giorgia Polidori1, Andrea Visani2, Gianluca Giavaresi2
1Department of Information Engineering, University of Brescia, Via Branze 38, 25123 Brescia, Italy.
Biosensors
|June 25, 2026
Summary
Ion-selective sensors (ISSs) show promise for orthopaedic diagnostics and treatment, though their clinical application is still underdeveloped. Further research is needed to overcome challenges like biocompatibility and long-term stability for ISSs in musculoskeletal applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Materials Science
- Orthopaedic Surgery
Background:
- Ion-selective sensors (ISSs) offer advanced capabilities like miniaturization and high specificity.
- While ISSs are studied in environmental and general health, their specific role in orthopaedics remains largely unexplored.
- Technological advancements are driving the potential of ISSs in medical diagnostics and prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current state and future potential of ion-selective sensors (ISSs) specifically within the field of orthopaedics.
- To identify key ions targeted by ISSs that are relevant to musculoskeletal pathophysiology.
- To evaluate technological solutions and highlight development targets for clinical orthopaedic applications of ISSs.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed and Scopus databases.
- Keywords included "ion", "sensor", "electrodes", "selective", "musculoskeletal", "implant", "joint replacement", and "orthopaedic".
- Screening and synthesis of 44 relevant studies, classifying them by target ion and evaluating technological aspects.
Main Results:
- Few studies specifically address ISS applications in orthopaedics, indicating a significant research gap.
- All investigated ISSs targeted ions relevant to musculoskeletal pathophysiology, suggesting broad potential.
- Key challenges for clinical translation include biocompatibility, long-term stability, calibration, and validation.
Conclusions:
- ISSs represent a largely untapped frontier in orthopaedics with potential for diagnosis and treatment.
- Addressing challenges in biocompatibility and stability is crucial for transitioning ISSs from prototypes to clinical tools.
- Successful development of ISSs will enable advanced sensorised orthopaedic devices and personalized medicine.
