Resorbable Materials in Orthopedic Surgery

Abstract

Materials to be used for construction of osteosynthesis devices should possess adequate strength, ductility, Young’s modulus, and resistance to wear and fatigue. Physical factors which affect performance of such devices in vivo are the following:

• Mechanical compatibility with the tissue: Large differences in modulus between living tissues and man-made implants lead to high concentrations of stresses at the attachment sites and to implant and/or tissue failure.

• Stability of physical properties during the healing period and chemical stability: The lack of stability of physical properties of the implant during the healing period leads to non-union of fractures and or to implant failure. Chemical deterioration of metallic or polymeric implants results in the release of ions or monomers. These may interfere with the tissue, causing toxic and or inflammatory responses.