The viscosity of acrylic bone cements

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials science
• Rheology
• Orthopedic surgery

Background:

• Acrylic bone cement is crucial for total joint arthroplasty, influencing handling and bone integration.
• Understanding its rheological properties is essential for optimal surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the rheological properties of leading acrylic bone cements.
• To compare viscosity changes across different shear rates and over time.

Main Methods:

• Rheological testing of three leading bone cements across a three-decade shear rate range.
• Testing of four additional cements at a single shear rate.

Main Results:

• All tested acrylic bone cements exhibited non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic behavior.
• Significant differences in viscosity and its rate of change over time were observed between cements.
• Viscosity generally increased with time, often at a steady or accelerating rate.

Conclusions:

• Acrylic bone cements demonstrate diverse rheological profiles, impacting their performance.
• Variations in viscosity over time necessitate careful consideration during surgical procedures.
• Material selection should account for these rheological differences for improved total joint arthroplasty outcomes.