For decades, doctors have been implanting Metal nails or plates To secure the broken bone by keeping it in place while it heals. But the metals used – usually Titanium or stainless steel – After performing their role they do not melt. They often remain in the patient’s body for life, and the immune system often attacks them as a foreign body, causing infections and pain, so they must be removed for another operation.

Researchers from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, led by Associate Professor Hamdi Ibrahim, want to solve this problem. Scientists study the use of pMineral buds such as magnesium and zinc for the production of implants. It is absorbed by the body and allows the formation of new bone.

It is worth emphasizing that implants made of stainless steel and titanium are stronger than the tested alloys. for this reason, Biodegradable implants are not suitable for all surgical applications. It is suitable for treating injuries to the hands, feet and facial bones, but it cannot withstand greater loads such as the bones of the legs and arms.

There are some problems with magnesium and zinc alloys. Hamdi Ibrahim said: Either they decompose very quickly when the bones heal, or they lack sufficient strength.

Alloys degrade very quickly Can release dangerous organic compoundswhich the body cannot handle. This is one of the problems that Ibrahim’s team is working to solve.

See also  The best public space in Opolsky Oblast 2021: terms and categories