Biodegradable porous iron versus titanium interference screws in porcine ACL reconstruction model: a one-year observational study
Abstract This study assessed osteointegration and degradation of 3D-printed porous pure iron (Fe) versus titanium (Ti) interference screws in porcine anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction over 12 months. Twelve pigs were assigned to Fe (experimental) or Ti (control) groups and euthanized a...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Nature Portfolio
2025-07-01
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| Series: | npj Materials Degradation |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1038/s41529-025-00602-w |
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| Summary: | Abstract This study assessed osteointegration and degradation of 3D-printed porous pure iron (Fe) versus titanium (Ti) interference screws in porcine anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction over 12 months. Twelve pigs were assigned to Fe (experimental) or Ti (control) groups and euthanized at 3-, 6-, or 12-month post-surgery. Osteointegration was evaluated via micro-computed tomography, biomechanical tests measured ACL failure load, and histology examined bone and tissue integration. No significant differences in ACL failure load were noted between groups. Fe implants showed significantly greater bone volume fraction, bone surface density, and intersection-to-total surface area (P = 0.025, 0.047, 0.021). Minimal degradation of Fe implants was observed, with stable implant volumes and histological confirmation of osteoid attachment. Median ambulation time was shorter with Fe implants (5 weeks) than with Ti implants (11 weeks; P = 0.075). Findings demonstrate Fe implants’ biocompatibility and enhanced peri-implant osteogenesis, though improved degradation rates are needed. |
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| ISSN: | 2397-2106 |