Rapid Fracture Repair: Chinese Scientists Create Quick-Setting Bone Adhesive in 3 Minutes
In a groundbreaking development, a team of researchers at Nanjing University in China have created a potentially revolutionary medical bone glue named "Bone-02." This innovative adhesive could revolutionise fracture repairs by replacing traditional metal implants.
The bone glue, which can achieve precise fixation within two to three minutes, even in a blood-rich environment, has shown impressive results. Lab tests have confirmed that Bone-02 performs well in both safety and effectiveness, with a maximum bonding force of over 400 pounds. The shear strength of the glue is about 0.5 MPa, and the compressive strength is around 10 MPa.
Associate Chief Orthopaedic Surgeon at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Lin Xianfeng, led the development of Bone-02. Lin found inspiration for the innovation after observing oysters clinging firmly to a bridge underwater. The procedure using Bone-02 was completed in under 180 seconds, significantly faster than conventional treatment methods that would have required a large incision to implant steel plates and screws.
If proven effective, the bone glue could potentially reduce risks of post-surgical reactions and infections. Moreover, the glue can be naturally absorbed by the body as the bone heals, eliminating the need for another surgery to remove implants.
The development of Bone-02 was announced on Wednesday, 10 September, by a research team in East China's Zhejiang Province. The announcement was reported by both Global Times and NDTV. Scientists believe they may have finally cracked the code to a long-sought medical innovation with Bone-02.
Remarkably, Bone-02 has already been successfully tested in over 150 patients. If it continues to prove effective, this medical bone glue could indeed be a game-changer in orthopaedic treatment.
