For over 50 years, bone cement has been used to strengthen artificial joints like hip, knee, shoulder, and elbow joints. The main purpose of bone cement is to fill the space between the prosthesis and the bone. This absorbs the forces on the joint by creating an elastic area. Besides ensuring the long-term stability of the artificial implant, it also improves the damaged bone. Polymeric bone cement consists of a polymer matrix known as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and a liquid monomer called methyl methacrylate (MMA). When these two components are mixed, a free radical polymerization reaction occurs, leading to the cement's hardening at the place of use. The properties of bone cement, such as mechanical strength, biocompatibility, and handling characteristics, can be adjusted by combining the effective polymerization parameters. However, there are some challenges, such as heat generation during polymerization.
Ceramic bone cement is a composite material of ceramic particles dispersed in a polymer matrix, including calcium phosphate and calcium sulfate. The ceramic particles provide strength and bioactivity, while the polymer matrix enhances the transport properties of the cement. This combination results in a mechanically stable, bone-conductive, and biocompatible cement. Moreover, ceramic bone cement can be engineered to release therapeutic agents, such as antibiotics or growth factors, to prevent infection and foster bone regeneration. Ceramic bone cement is a promising alternative material for bone cement in joint replacement. However, more research and development are required to optimize the properties of bone cement and overcome the challenges associated with its use. With continued advancements in biomaterials, ceramic and polymer bone cement could revolutionize the field of orthopedic surgery and improve patient outcomes. Recent research has focused on developing new bone cement with improved properties like bioactivity, antibacterial activity, and drug delivery capabilities. These developments aim to enhance the performance of bone cement and remove the current limitations in orthopedic applications. In this review study, we will focus on the types of bone cement, their mechanical, biological, and structural properties, and how to optimize them. |
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