Incorporation of surface-modified hydroxyapatite into poly(methyl methacrylate) to improve biological activity and bone ingrowth.

Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) is the most frequently used bone void filler in orthopedic surgery. However, the interface between the PMMA-based cement and adjacent bone tissue is typically weak as PMMA bone cement is inherently bioinert and not ideal for bone ingrowth. The present study aims to improve the affinity between the polymer and ceramic interphases.

In Vitro Biomechanical Validation of a Self-Adaptive Ratchet Growing Rod Construct for Fusionless Scoliosis Correction.

Study Design: In vitro biomechanical evaluation of a novel self-adaptive unidirectional ratchet growing rod (RGR) system.

Objective: The aim of this study was to propose and biomechanically validate a novel RGR construct in vitro using porcine thoracic spines and calculate the tensile force required to elongate the RGR with springs, without springs, and with soft tissue encapsulation (induced in vivo in rabbits).

Summary Of Background Data: Literature lacks clear consensus regarding the implant of choice for early-onset scoliosis.