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Bioresorbable screws for facial bone reconstruction: A pilot study in rabbits
Author(s) -
Kellman Robert M.,
Huckins Sean C.,
King Jennifer,
Humphrey David,
Marentette Lawrence,
Osborn David C.
Publication year - 1994
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1002/lary.5541040509
Subject(s) - fixation (population genetics) , medicine , bone resorption , resorption , dentistry , orthodontics , biomedical engineering , surgery , population , environmental health , pathology
Rigid fixation using plates and screws is an accepted mode of repair for facial fractures and osteotomies. To avoid potential complications associated with metal implants, bioresorbable implants are being developed. A study was performed to assess the strength over time of three bioresorbable polymeric screws for facial bone reconstruction. Screws of each polymer type and a titanium control were implanted in the periorbital bones of eight rabbits. Rabbits were euthanized at various time intervals. Pull‐out testing and histological analysis were performed. Results showed varying degrees of resorption and screw pull‐out strength dependent on time and polymer type, and no change in the control. This study demonstrates that bioresorbable screws can be used in bone, although the optimal choices for human implantation are yet to be determined.