PMMA-based bone cements containing magnetite particles for the hyperthermia of cancer.

Polymethylmethacrylate-based cements containing magnetite (Fe(3)O(4)) particles were prepared and their structure and properties were investigated. The Fe(3)O(4) particles were uniformly dispersed in the cement matrix and constituted a maximum of 60 wt.% of the total weight of cement. The setting time of the cement increased and the maximum temperature during the setting reaction decreased with increasing Fe(3)O(4) content. The compressive strength of cement increased with increasing Fe(3)O(4) content. Cement with 50 wt.% Fe(3)O(4) particles generated heat in alternating magnetic fields of 300 and 120 Oe at a frequency of 100 kHz.