Mechanical properties of bone fixation devices prepared from a human allogenic bone

BACKGROUND: The major goal of the study was to create a novel, internal fixation devices based on human cortical bone for use in the orthopedic surgery. Because the biological properties of processed tissue have already been intensively studied, it was mandatory to evaluate the mechanical properties of our new products before introduction into clinical use. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Pins and screws of different diameters were formed from processed human lower limb bones prepared according to standard tissue banking procedures: freezing, de-fatting and radiation sterilization (35 kGy). The mechanical properties of the pins and screws were evaluated using bending or braking tests. RESULTS: The results indicate potential usefulness for clinical applications.