Biochemical and biomechanical properties of bioabsorbable implants used in fracture fixation

Bioabsorbable implants offer several advantages over metal implants when used in fracture fixation including gradual stress transfer to the healing bone and the elimination of secondary procedures for implant removal. However, the inferior mechanical properties of the polymeric implants have limited their widespread use. Research models to define these properties have been difficult to standardize secondary to the numerous factors governing the in vivo behavior of polymeric implants. Chemical composition, manufacturing processes, as well as physical and environmental factors influence the biomechanical characteristics when these implants are used in fracture fixation. The biomechanical properties change over time as the implants are degraded, influencing the clinical use of these implants.