Mechanical properties of bone cement: a review

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Orthopedic Engineering
• Materials Science

Background:

• Bone cement, particularly polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), is crucial in orthopedic surgery.
• Understanding its mechanical properties is vital for implant longevity and patient outcomes.
• Numerous factors can significantly alter bone cement's mechanical behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive survey of reported mechanical properties of bone cement.
• To review variables influencing these properties, including handling, environmental, and compositional factors.
• To emphasize the importance of standardized reporting of mechanical test results.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing research on bone cement mechanical properties.
• Analysis of factors affecting mechanical behavior, such as strain rate, porosity, and temperature.
• Summary of previous strategies to enhance bone cement performance.

Main Results:

• Mechanical properties of bone cement vary widely based on numerous influencing factors.
• Handling characteristics, additives, porosity, and in vivo conditions significantly impact performance.
• Standardized reporting of test conditions is essential for accurate comparison and interpretation.

Conclusions:

• A thorough understanding of factors affecting bone cement mechanics is critical.
• Standardized testing protocols are needed to ensure reliable data for PMMA.
• Further research is recommended to fully characterize PMMA's physical properties for improved clinical applications.