Irradiation of bioresorbable biomaterials for controlled surface degradation

• Published in: Radiation physics and chemistry (Oxford, England : 1993) Vol. 94; pp. 211 - 216
• Main Authors: Simpson, M., Gilmore, B.F., Miller, A., Helt-Hansen, J., Buchanan, F.J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.01.2014
• Subjects: Biocompatibility; Biomedical materials; Bioresorbable polymer; Controlled release; Controlled surface degradation; Degradation; Electron beam irradiation; Irradiation; Low energy; Polymers; Reagents; Surgical implants; Controlled surface degradation; Bioresorbable polymer; Electron beam irradiation; Controlled release
• ISSN: 0969-806X; 1879-0895
• DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2013.09.002

Bioresorbable polymers increasingly are the materials of choice for implantable orthopaedic fixation devices. Controlled degradation of these polymers is vital for preservation of mechanical properties during tissue repair and controlled release of incorporated agents such as osteoconductive or anti-microbial additives. The work outlined in this paper investigates the use of low energy electron beam irradiation to surface modify polyhydroxyacid samples incorporating beta tricalcium phosphate (β-TCP). This work uniquely demonstrates that surface modification of bioresorbable polymers through electron beam irradiation allows for the early release of incorporated agents such as bioactive additives. Samples were e-beam irradiated at an energy of 125keV and doses of either 150kGy or 500kGy. Irradiated and non-irradiated samples were degraded in phosphate buffered saline (PBS), to simulate bioresorption, followed by characterisation. The results show that low energy e-beam irradiation enhances surface hydrolytic degradation in comparison to bulk and furthermore allows for earlier release of incorporated calcium via dissolution into the surrounding medium. •Electron beam irradiation of bioresorbable polymer.•Controlled surface degradation.•Controlled release of incorporated agent.