Orthopedic screws using ceramics as drug delivery. Evaluation of the bone to implant interface using neutron imaging

Purpose and goal

Metallic implants are commonly used in surgical treatments for many orthopedic conditions. The stability of the implants relies on adequate integration with the surrounding bone. The overall PhD project aims at developing a treatment option for diseased bone, using artificial bone substitute loaded with bioactive drugs, slowly eluting into the surrounding bone. In the present project we aimed at developing a commercial product, a screw that “treat” the surrounding osteoporotic bone, and enhance its fixation. Two Swedish orthopedic companies are collaborating.

Expected results and effects

In the current application, our aim was to strengthen the group´s and in particular the PhD-student´s capabilities to work with new imaging techniques. Due to the pandemia, the PhD-student never got to do the experimental collection hands-on due to the restrictions. The measurements were instead made by local staff. The PhD-student was able to perform data analysis. It appears that samples treated with bone resorption blockers show more bone. The neutron images are free of metal-related artefacts, which enables us to accurately quantify the interface between the screw and bone.

Planned approach and implementation

We planned and executed the animal experiments, harvested, and prepared samples. Experimental time was acquired at the ILL but unfortunately the Covid-19 pandemic restricted his ability to be onsite. The samples were imaged by the staff on site, but we could analyze the images in Lund. The primary goal, to build skills and competence for the PhD student therefore has not been fulfilled, but we believe, for the group, it will eventually. We have participated in new applications and experiments at NanoMAX.