| Abstract Scope |
Magnesium-based implants offer the prospect of temporary mechanical support followed by gradual resorption, potentially eliminating implant-removal procedures and reducing long-term foreign-material burden. However, translating this promise into safe, clinically reliable medical devices requires far more than selecting a suitable alloy. This keynote provides an overview of research, development and clinical application of resorbable magnesium implants, from material and surface engineering to device design, manufacturing, preclinical evaluation and regulatory approval. Particular focus is placed on the challenges of controlling degradation, maintaining mechanical integrity during healing, demonstrating biocompatibility, and generating robust evidence for safety and performance. The presentation will also discuss the regulatory expectations that distinguish biodegradable metallic implants from conventional permanent devices. Finally, it will highlight clinical areas in which magnesium-based implants have already entered the market, illustrating how scientific understanding, engineering development and clinical evidence can be integrated to advance magnesium from a promising material to a viable medical technology. |