© Fraunhofer IFAM
A broken bone failing to heal represents an enormous burden for patients, which also often leads to further additional surgeries being required. Fraunhofer researchers have worked alongside partners to develop a composite material to be used in the treatment of such non-union cases. The resulting implant (termed scaffold) is designed to significantly improve treatment success rates and speed up the healing process. The material is made up of a combination of a biodegradable polymer and bioactive glass and can serve as a main and supporting structure. Its aim is to inhibit the growth of bacteria at the wound site and support the growth of new bone structures. This innovative medical engineering is the result of the SCABAEGO joint research project, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). Fraunhofer IFAM will present an initial demonstrator at the joint Fraunhofer booth at the COMPAMED medical engineering trade fair in Düsseldorf, Germany (Hall 8a, Booth G10).
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