Tissue reaction on PLLA versus stainless steel interlocking nails for fracture fixation: an animal study.

van der Elst, M; Dijkema, A R; Klein, C P; Patka, P; Haarman, H J · Biomaterials · 1995

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

In order to develop a biodegradable interlocking nail for fracture fixation, polylactic acid (PLLA) rods were implanted in the femoral bone of young pigs. A midshaft osteotomy was performed in order to mimic a fracture. The tissue response to PLLA rods versus stainless steel rods was studied after 1 and 3 months of implantation. Fracture-healing characteristics and chemical and mechanical properties of the PLLA rods were studied after explantation. Mechanical properties deteriorated during implantation and chemical properties changed significantly in 1 and 3 months of implantation. PLLA and stainless steel induced a similar tissue reaction during the studied implantation time of 3 months.

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