Bio-degradable 3D printed polymeric bone implant developed

Russian scientists have introduced 3-D-printed polymeric bone implants that can get absorbed and subsequently replaced with natural bone tissue in the body, which is a significant advance in the field of implant surgeries. The prototype can be printed on 3D-printers according to specific parameters, contracted to half its size. It is then heated in the course of the surgery so the implant can obtain its original shape and size and is securely fixed in the section of the bone being restored. The implant is installed with a minimum number of metal fixators that are traditionally used in implantations.

Project Manager Fyodor Senatov National University of Science and Technology MISIS in Moscow, stated that, they have successfully employed the shape memory effect of the lactic acid polymer – a composite based on polylactide. The porous composite structure is capable of shrinking to half its original size and then returning to its original shape.

Senatov stated that, this material biodegrades in the body without causing any harm. The researchers stated that in traditional implant insertion after head injury, additional surgery is often required due to the low rate of integration with the surrounding tissues or wrong implant position.

The polymeric implant has a specified geometry and high porosity, and does not require any additional treatment, the researchers said. Due to the properties of the material and the use of the patient’s own cells, it quickly adapts and gets replaced with natural bone tissue.

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