Biomaterials in Orthopedic Devices: Current Issues and Future Perspectives

Abstract

In orthopedics, bone fixation imposes the use of implants in almost all cases. Over time, the materials used for the implant have evolved from inert materials to those that mimic the morphology of the bone. Therefore, bioabsorbable, biocompatible, and bioactive materials have emerged. Our study aimed to review the main types of implant materials used in orthopedics and present their advantages and drawbacks. We have searched for the pros and cons of the various types of material in the literature from over the last twenty years. The studied data show that consecrated metal alloys, still widely used, can be successfully replaced by new types of polymers. The data from the literature show that, by manipulating their composition, the polymeric compounds can simulate the structure of the different layers of human bone, while preserving its mechanical characteristics. In addition, manipulation of the polymer composition can provide the initiation of desired cellular responses. Among the implanting materials, polyurethane is distinguished as the most versatile polymeric material for use both as orthopedic implants and as material for biomechanical testing of various bone reduction and fixation techniques.

The Usefulness of Nanotechnology in Improving the Prognosis of Lung Cancer

“…Some of these distribution problems may be tackled by using nanoparticles (NPs)—chemical structures able to contain drugs and direct them to various targets. Their nanostructures have physicochemical characteristics conferring them biocompatibility and making them adequate for the task [ 8 , 9 ]. NPs may be roughly classified based on their nature as polymeric, lipid-based, or inorganic.…”

Advances in Multifunctional Bioactive Coatings for Metallic Bone Implants

“…Given the improved formation of adherent layer and reduced movement at the boneimplant interface, by surface modification of this first generation of biomaterials their specific properties have been upgraded. In contrast to the first generation of bioinert materials that form fibrous tissue capsules, the second generation of biomaterials focuses on the development of bioactive (generating hydroxyapatite layer on their surface) or biodegradable (bio-absorbable in a progressive manner) materials that promote specific cellular responses [58]. The third generation of biomaterials is designed to be temporary 3D scaffolds that stimulate tissue regeneration at a molecular level, angiogenesis and nutrient supply [59].…”

Biological Characteristics of Polyurethane-Based Bone-Replacement Materials

“…In addition, the cytotoxicity of PMMA has been repeatedly noted, which in turn can negatively affect the regeneration processes [ 29 ]. It is thought that methyl methacrylate monomer release may underlie the so-called cement implantation syndrome with possible manifestations such as cardiosuppression and hypotension, sometimes resulting in sudden death in the early postoperative period [ 30 , 31 ]. All of the above makes it relevant to search for a bone-replacement polymer that can be injected without causing chemical/thermal damage to the surrounding tissues or systemic toxic effects.…”

“…Today, polymers based on polyurethanes are considered as promising materials for surgery and regenerative medicine [ 32 ]. Due to the possibility of their structural modification, polyurethane compounds can have their different physical and chemical properties varied according to the planned application [ 31 ]. Their unique properties enable us to obtain both elastic/soft and solid polyurethane-based materials, characterized by good biocompatibility and biostability [ 31 ].…”