Correct techniques for the use of bioabsorbable implants in orthopaedic trauma

Abstract

Since the mid 1980s, the materials and designs of bioabsorbable screws and rods have improved with better biocompatibility, absorbability, and biomechanics, thus reducing the rate of complications. This article describes the differences in the placement of bioabsorbable materials and conventional materials and how the differences affect applicability in orthopaedic procedures. Bioabsorbable screws and pins can be used for different types of fractures. However, when used it is important to consider the differences between bioabsorbable and conventional materials during the surgical technique. When using bioabsorbable materials, the following must be considered: the bone surface should be fully seen, even cannulated screws; the entire length of the pilot hole requires drilling or tapping; screws and rods are nonreversible; drilling of bioabsorbable materials is possible, if required; screws or rods, if long or prominent, can be cut or shaped to avoid skin complications; bioabsorbable implants cannot be seen on radiography (a drill bit or Kirschner wire must be used to assure that the final position of the screw or rod will be correct); and there are no self-adjustment properties when bioabsorbable screws or rods are inserted. Conventional materials and bioabsorbable materials require different insertion strategies. Recognizing these differences will help in the application of bioabsorbable implants and decrease the rate of complications.

Materials and Orthopedic Applications for Bioresorbable Inductively Coupled Resonance Sensors

“…This sensing capability could be applied for monitoring the dimensional changes in self-reinforced bioresorbable polymer screws, which are expected to swell and shorten 1− 2% after implantation, thereby allowing improved compression at the bone fracture line. 59 The resonance peak of the Mo-based device was noticed to be comparable to the Cu reference sensor (Figure 4f). The Mo-based LC resonator was effortlessly readable with 10 mm of glass between the reader coil and the resonator.…”

“…This sensing capability could be applied for monitoring the dimensional changes in self-reinforced bioresorbable polymer screws, which are expected to swell and shorten 1–2% after implantation, thereby allowing improved compression at the bone fracture line. 59 …”

“…For example, an axial compressive strain of 0.7% decreased the resonance frequency from 80.9 to 80.1 MHz with a further drop to 79.6 MHz at a strain of 1.4% (Figure g). This sensing capability could be applied for monitoring the dimensional changes in self-reinforced bioresorbable polymer screws, which are expected to swell and shorten 1–2% after implantation, thereby allowing improved compression at the bone fracture line …”

Pediatric medial humeral epicondyle fracture in children: Are biodegradable pins with tension band absorbable sutures efficient?

“…Positioning the bioabsorbable pins in the place of the previously drilled wires requires careful technique, which can increase the time of the procedure. [ 20 ] Because the pins are almost invisible under fluoroscopy, they should be inserted after an accurate measurement. If the ends of the pins go far beyond the opposite cortical bone and protrude laterally, soft tissue or the radial nerve may be irritated.…”

Innominate Salter osteotomy using resorbable screws: A retrospective case series and presentation of a new concept for fixation

“…27 These difficulties have diminished in later generations of implants using mainly PLLA and PLGA, which degrade slower than PGA. 28,29 PLLA implants provide good stability and cause only moderate local reactions but take years to biodegrade and are thus probably less suitable for growing individuals.…”