Radiopaque Crystalline, Non-Crystalline and Nanostructured Bioceramics

Abstract

Radiopacity is sometimes an essential characteristic of biomaterials that can help clinicians perform follow-ups during pre- and post-interventional radiological imaging. Due to their chemical composition and structure, most bioceramics are inherently radiopaque but can still be doped/mixed with radiopacifiers to increase their visualization during or after medical procedures. The radiopacifiers are frequently heavy elements of the periodic table, such as Bi, Zr, Sr, Ba, Ta, Zn, Y, etc., or their relevant compounds that can confer enhanced radiopacity. Radiopaque bioceramics are also intriguing additives for biopolymers and hybrids, which are extensively researched and developed nowadays for various biomedical setups. The present work aims to provide an overview of radiopaque bioceramics, specifically crystalline, non-crystalline (glassy), and nanostructured bioceramics designed for applications in orthopedics, dentistry, and cancer therapy. Furthermore, the modification of the chemical, physical, and biological properties of parent ceramics/biopolymers due to the addition of radiopacifiers is critically discussed. We also point out future research lacunas in this exciting field that bioceramists can explore further.

Perspectives on the impact of crystallization in bioactive glasses and glass‐ceramics

“…Moreover, it is vital that implanted bioceramics, bioactive glasses, and bioactive glass-ceramics are visibly different from surrounding tissue using X-ray imaging. 106 Due to the compositional similarity between hard tissue and bioactive glass materials, it can be difficult to distinguish implanted materials from host tissue. Radiopacifying elements and their crystalline compounds can enhance this visualization.…”

“…Medical imaging is crucial before, during, and after interventional surgeries. Moreover, it is vital that implanted bioceramics, bioactive glasses, and bioactive glass‐ceramics are visibly different from surrounding tissue using X‐ray imaging 106 . Due to the compositional similarity between hard tissue and bioactive glass materials, it can be difficult to distinguish implanted materials from host tissue.…”

PMMA/PDMS/MXene Nanofibers for Postsurgery Monitoring of Vascular Implants

“…Consequently, rapid clearance (e.g., 24 h postadministration) is important to avoid long-term adverse residual effects, presenting challenges for continuous postimplantation monitoring. 1,6 Contrast agents are radiopaque materials, which can attenuate high-energy electromagnetic radiation such as Xrays, radio waves, and sound waves used in diagnostic imaging techniques. 6 Incorporating radiopaque materials provides enhanced image quality, resulting in diagnostic accuracy and ensuring precise and specific evaluation of implanted biomaterials during postimplant clinical assessments.…”

“…1,6 Contrast agents are radiopaque materials, which can attenuate high-energy electromagnetic radiation such as Xrays, radio waves, and sound waves used in diagnostic imaging techniques. 6 Incorporating radiopaque materials provides enhanced image quality, resulting in diagnostic accuracy and ensuring precise and specific evaluation of implanted biomaterials during postimplant clinical assessments. In vascular applications, these materials play a crucial role in continuous monitoring by offering enhanced visibility.…”

“…Despite their high contrast capabilities, most contrast agents pose toxicity concerns at their recommended dosages. Consequently, rapid clearance (e.g., 24 h postadministration) is important to avoid long-term adverse residual effects, presenting challenges for continuous postimplantation monitoring. , …”