| Abstract Scope |
Zinc, a promising biodegradable metal, exhibits excellent biocompatibility, moderate degradation rate, and superior mechanical properties. Over the past decade, we have developed diverse zinc alloys and employed them in various implants. Specifically, a zinc alloy containing copper was tailored to meet the demands of cardiovascular stents. In a study involving 40 stents implanted in the coronary arteries of 16 pigs for up to 24 months, remarkable results were observed, approximately 72% of the stent had been reabsorbed by the pigs, without any indications of inflammation or blood clotting. Furthermore, by incorporating manganese and magnesium, zinc alloy screws were engineered for attaching tendons during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Trials in rabbits and pigs demonstrated accelerated bone formation and superior tendon-bone integration compared to conventional titanium screws. The zinc screw is currently undergoing clinical tests in several hospitals. Zinc has the potential to become the next generation biomaterial for many implants. |