Enhanced release of calcium phosphate additives from bioresorbable orthopaedic devices using irradiation technology is non-beneficial in a rabbit model: An animal study.

OBJECTIVES

Bioresorbable orthopaedic devices with calcium phosphate (CaP) fillers are commercially available on the assumption that increased calcium (Ca) locally drives new bone formation, but the clinical benefits are unknown. Electron beam (EB) irradiation of polymer devices has been shown to enhance the release of Ca. The aims of this study were to: 1) establish the biological safety of EB surface-modified bioresorbable devices; 2) test the release kinetics of CaP from a polymer device; and 3) establish any subsequent beneficial effects on bone repair .

METHODS

ActivaScrew Interference (Bioretec Ltd, Tampere, Finland) and poly(L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) orthopaedic screws containing 10 wt% β-tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP) underwent EB treatment. degradation over 36 weeks was investigated by recording mass loss, pH change, and Ca release. Implant performance was investigated over 36 weeks using a lapine femoral condyle model. Bone growth and osteoclast activity were assessed by histology and enzyme histochemistry.

RESULTS

Calcium release doubled in the EB-treated group before returning to a level seen in untreated samples at 28 weeks. Extensive bone growth was observed around the perimeter of all implant types, along with limited osteoclastic activity. No statistically significant differences between comparative groups was identified.

CONCLUSION

The higher than normal dose of EB used for surface modification did not adversely affect tissue response around implants . Surprisingly, incorporation of β-TCP and the subsequent accelerated release of Ca had no significant effect on implant performance, calling into question the clinical evidence base for these commercially available devices.: I. Palmer, S. A. Clarke, F. J Buchanan. Enhanced release of calcium phosphate additives from bioresorbable orthopaedic devices using irradiation technology is non-beneficial in a rabbit model: An animal study. 2019;8:266-274. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.86.BJR-2018-0224.R2.