Researchers at the US Mayo Clinic (Minnesota) have created artificial vertebrae of bio-breakup polymeric materials. Scientists presented their work at the annual conference of the American Chemical Community, which takes place in San Diego, California.
Video that explains the innovation (in English).
According to doctors, the main purpose of the bdevelopment is to help patients with severe spinal injuries or metastatic tumors. When you remove the latter, surgeons have to remove the adjacent vertebrae and inter-vertebral discs in the affected area. To maintain the integrity of the spinal cord, it is necessary to insert metal frames or bone implants. This operation is carried out through the chest cavity of the patient, which can lead to serious complications. This method is less risky – because of incisions made in the back. It requires the use of expensive titanium rods.
The researchers presented an alternative that can replace expensive metal prostheses. They developed a graft, the size of which in dehydrated form allows for it to be placed in the space left by the removed vertebra. The polymer material absorbs fluid from the body and expands, filling the space between the bones.
The scientists used the materials of fumarate polyethylene glycol molecules sewn to create a hollow cylindrical cell, which is filled with stabilizing materials. To find the right size of the cell and its rate of expansion, the researchers tested it in the lab, on a mock real backbone.
According to scientists, artificial vertebrae can ensure proper regeneration of bone tissue and help prevent surgical complications if they contain drugs.
Earlier, People’s Project volunteers reported the full recovery of 21-year-old Oleksandr from injury obtained in the ATO.
As part of the project “Bioengineering Rehabilitation for Wounded“ iLaya clinic doctors use the latest biotechnology to restore the damaged limbs of wounded Ukrainian soldiers.
Currently the collection of funds for the treatment of two wounded in underway and there are five more waiting in line to join the project. For them biotechnology represents the only chance of recovery.
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