Current status and future prospects of biodegradable magnesium-based implants developed for orthopaedic applications

Biodegradable magnesium-based implants are the most clinically translated biodegradable metallic biomaterials in orthopaedics, owing to their favorable biocompatibility, bone-matched mechanics, and bioactive degradation behaviour. Through Mg²⁺ release, these implants may support osteogenesis, angiogenesis, and immunomodulation while avoiding permanent implant retention. However, their broader adoption remains constrained by degradation/healing mismatch, gas-associated issues, site-specific mechanical limitations, and insufficient long-term safety evidence. This review summarises the current status of biodegradable magnesium-based orthopaedic implants from a translational perspective by integrating biological mechanisms, preclinical animal models, clinical progress, long-term and regulation-related challenges. We particularly highlight the dual biological effects of Mg-based degradation, the translational relevance of disease-oriented small- and large-animal models, and emerging clinical evidence. By linking mechanistic insight with preclinical and clinical evidence, this review highlights the major opportunities and unresolved barriers that will shape the next stage of clinical translation in this field. The translational potential of this article. This review summarises biodegradable magnesium-based orthopaedic implants from a translational perspective, linking biological mechanisms, preclinical animal models, clinical evidence, long-term safety, and regulation-related considerations. By identifying key barriers to clinical adoption and highlighting indication-oriented evaluation strategies, it provides a practical reference for the future development, assessment, and translation of magnesium-based implants in orthopaedics.