Orthopaedic applications of magnesium

Enhancing bone regeneration with advanced materials, overcoming challenges for clinical success in orthopaedics.

The project focused on advancing biodegradable magnesium (Mg) for clinical applications, particularly in orthopaedics. Mg-based metals were promising due to their mechanical properties similar to cortical bone and their ability to degrade over time, aiding musculoskeletal tissue regeneration. Additionally, these metals possessed antibacterial properties, reducing infection risks and inhibiting bone tumour recurrence. Despite these benefits, challenges such as rapid degradation and limited mechanical strength hindered their use in weight-bearing applications. The project aimed to overcome these limitations through innovative device design and coatings for Mg-based metals, facilitating their clinical translation. This endeavour combined scientific and engineering expertise to enhance the clinical viability of Mg-based solutions.

  • Original project funded for three years from 2014

Key topics

  • Biodegradable magnesium alloys
  • Mechanical properties and biocompatibility
  • Antibacterial properties
  • Tissue regeneration

Directors

Ling Qin
Ling Qin

Professor at the Chinese University of Hong Kong

Ke Yang
Ke Yang

Professor at CAS, Institute of Metal Research, Shenyang

Other projects

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