In lecture we learned that bulk metallic glasses are amorphous metallic alloys and they have properties that are similar to both glass and metals. They have high strength, are very conductive, have high flexibility at high temperature, and can be processed using blow molding in order to create a surface texture. We also learned that some bulk metallic glasses saw a less severe foreign body response as there were less giant body cell formation. Due to its unique properties, bulk metallic glass could be a new leading biomaterial for biomedical applications.
Osteosynthesis is the process of attaching a bone fracture with devices, typically made of metal, in order to immobilize it. This is done so that the bone can heal properly. Lots of studies have been done in order to determine which material would be best to use for these devices as the material has to not fuse with the bone, not elicit an immune response, but still remain strong. Additionally, the material must be able to be removed from the body once the fusing is complete. The figure below shows what a bulk metallic metal used for osteosynthesis looks like once it is implanted.
In the paper published by Imai and Hiromoto, three different metals were tested for this function: Titanium, stainless steel, and bulk metallic glasses. Since osteosynthesis requires a material that has a high load-bearing potential, titanium and stainless steel are the materials that are most commonly used. However, research into a new material such as bulk metallic glasses could be beneficial as it still has the needed strength and elastic modulus, however it also has a more beneficial impact within the body.
In the experiment conducted, rats were implanted with the three different materials for 12 weeks before the implant was removed. The results showed that bulk metallic glass did not elicit a biological response from the body as there was no infiltration of inflammatory cells or bone resorption. Additionally, the bone healing with bulk metallic glasses was shown to be closer to completion than with titanium or stainless steel. Ultimately, bulk metallic glass seems to be a promising material to be used for osteosynthesis, however my focus is on wound healing.
Based off of lectures and the article studying bulk metallic glass’ performance for osteosynthesis, it seems that BMGs are compatible within the body, due to the lowered inflammatory response. However, for wound healing it is necessary for the material to aid in the inflammatory response. Additionally, it is not as necessary for the material to have a high strength or elastic modulus. Thus, this material may not be as useful for wound healing purposes.
Imai, K., & Hiromoto, S. (2016). In Vivo Evaluation of Bulk Metallic Glasses for Osteosynthesis Devices. Materials, 9(8), 676.