Skeletal Repair by in Situ Formation of the Mineral Phase of Bone

TLDR

A paste of inorganic calcium and phosphate is injected to form a hardening biomaterial that acts as internal fixation and is being tested in human trials, including percutaneous placement into acute fractures. The developed paste hardens in minutes to form dahllite with bone‑like composition and morphology, reaches 55 MPa compressive strength within 12 h, and animal studies show in‑vivo remodeling.

Abstract

A process has been developed for the in situ formation of the mineral phase of bone. Inorganic calcium and phosphate sources are combined to form a paste that is surgically implanted by injection. Under physiological conditions, the material hardens in minutes concurrent with the formation of dahllite. After 12 hours, dahllite formation was nearly complete, and an ultimate compressive strength of 55 megapascals was achieved. The composition and crystal morphology of the dahllite formed are similar to those of bone. Animal studies provide evidence that the material is remodeled in vivo. A novel approach to skeletal repair is being tested in human trials for various applications; in one of the trials the new biomaterial is being percutaneously placed into acute fractures. After hardening, it serves as internal fixation to maintain proper alignment while healing occurs.