Orthopaedic Fixation Devices

Biodegradable synthetic polymers such as poly(glycolic acid), poly(lactic acid) and their copolymers, and copolymers of trimethylene carbonate and glycolide have been used in a number of clinical applications [26-30]. The major applications include resorbable sutures, drug delivery systems and orthopaedic fixation devices such as pins, rods and screws [31, 32]. 

Warner, J.R and Warren, R.F. (1991) Arthroscopic bankart repair using a cannulated, absorbable fixation device. Operative Techniques in Orthopaedics, 1, 192-198. 

Harding, A. F., Cook, S. D., and Thomas, K. A., Orthopaedic Implant Retrieval Clinical Performance, Metallurgical Characteristics and Tissue Reaction in 250 Internal Fixation Devices, Proceedings of the 5th Southern Biomedical Engineering Conference, Petgamon Phess, NY, 1985, pp. 282-288. 

Abstract Polymers have been used as biomaterials in Orthopaedic Surgery for decades. Despite reports of complications with some polymeric materials, most are biocompatible and have been used successfully in total joint replacements, for soft tissue reconstruction, for joint fusion, and as fracture fixation devices. In this chapter we wiU describe the types of polymers used in connnercially-available orthopaedic implants, and then give a breakdown by clinical application. 

Biodegradable internal fixation devices such as screws, pins, and plates are already nsed in clinical applications such as orthopaedic surgery. The advantage of using biodegradable fixation devices instead of metallic counterparts in bone orthopaedic snrgery is obvions - the device simply disappears after the bone heals. Loads... 

The majority of orthopaedic devices are fabricated fix m 316L stainless steel. Cobalt-chromium and titanium-based alloys are used for the remaining share. These latter materials tend to be more durable in in vivo fluids than 316L [90]. Thus, their use tends to be more prevalent in permanent applications such as total joints. 316L, on the other hand, is often used in temporary situations such as fracture fixation. 

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