subject: Magnesium Alloys - Not the Typical Medical Metal [print this page] Magnesium Alloys - Not the Typical Medical Metal
Once upon a time, the reigning king metal of the medical field was titanium. Second best was stainless steel. Both were considered highly bio-compatible: resistant to corrosion, exhibiting impressive strength while having few adverse affects on the body. These metals were great for a time, but there was a problem. Both titanium and stainless steel were permanent fixtures in the body, which caused new problems for patients. Then magnesium came along and grew in popularity for the reasons that went against what the kings of metal stood for.
Temporary Duty
The most important characteristic of the magnesium metal alloy implant is its ability to be a temporary part of the human body. Titanium and stainless steel implants restricted movement and had issues with corrosion when used for an extended period of time. Over time, these implant experienced pitting that resulted in weaknesses in the bone. Magnesium alloy implants corrode, pit, and weaken, but as the body's own bone material regenerates and strengthens. The implant is a temporary part of the body that causes no extended affects because it disintegrates in the body, leaving as waste.
The Ultimate in Bio-compatible
The magnesium alloy implants ability to corrode, absorbing into the body to be removed as waste is more a testament to bio-compatibility than the titanium and steel's ability to coexist within the body for an a long period of time. The titanium and steel resist the one organic process that allows a metal to work with the body in order perform a more natural fix. That is the ultimate bio-compatibility, assisting the body in repairing itself.
No Sacrifices
Patients with the permanent implants sacrificed mobility for the rest of their lives. Some even experienced chronic pain due to the implants. Although these implants allowed the bone to heal, they also created an unnatural state for that area of the body. Muscles, other body and body systems must all accommodate the new piece. Many of them do not adapt easily, resulting in permanent limitations.
Magnesium alloy implants work in opposition to tried and true metal implants in orthopedics. However it is their unconventional traits that make these alloys the more natural alternatives today and possibly the standard tomorrow.
