Moscow, Feb.11 (SANA) A Russian research team has developed biodegradable bone screws that could offer a safer and more body-compatible alternative to the metal screws widely used in orthopedic surgery.
The innovation was achieved by researchers at the Lopukhin Research Center of the Federal Medical-Biological Agency in Moscow, in cooperation with Moscow State University and the Scientific Center for Genetics and Life Sciences at Sirius University of Science and Technology. The findings were published in the Japanese scientific journal Polymer.
According to the study, the screws are made of polylactide and coated with bioactive layers, including collagen and nano-hydroxyapatite, which improved bone integration and reduced inflammation and infection. The design also allows for the addition of silver nanowires to enhance antibacterial properties.
Laboratory tests showed that the screws promoted faster adhesion and growth of bone cells, while decreasing inflammatory cell levels and increasing osteoblast activity. Researchers said these effects could help reduce complications and speed up post-surgical bone healing, underscoring the effectiveness of the newly developed bioactive coatings.
The team expressed hope that the innovation could lead to new clinical applications, potentially reducing the need for follow-up surgeries and providing safer, more effective options for treating bone fractures and replacing conventional metal implants.
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