title: Orthopedic applications of silicon nitride ceramics.
abstract: Silicon nitride (Si(3)N(4)) is a ceramic material developed for industrial applications that demand high strength and fracture resistance under extreme operating conditions. Recently, Si(3)N(4) has been used as an orthopedic biomaterial, to promote bone fusion in spinal surgery and to develop bearings that can improve the wear and longevity of prosthetic hip and knee joints. Si(3)N(4) has been implanted in human patients for over 3 years now, and clinical trials with Si(3)N(4) femoral heads in prosthetic hip replacement are contemplated. This review will provide background information and data relating to Si(3)N(4) ceramics that will be of interest to engineering and medical professionals.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA. balb@health.missouri.edu
authors.forename: B S
authors.initials: BS
authors.lastname: Bal
authors.forename: M N
authors.initials: MN
authors.lastname: Rahaman
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000494:pharmacology; D002516:Ceramics / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D008422:Materials Testing; D009985:Orthopedics / Q000379:methods*; D019736:Prostheses and Implants; D017655:Silicon Compounds / Q000494:pharmacology*
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D017655:Silicon Compounds; C032734:silicon nitride