title: Absorbable biologically based internal fixation.
abstract: Absorbable devices for use in internal fixation have advanced over the years to become reliable and cost-effective alternatives to metallic hardware. In the past, biodegradable fixation involved a laborious implantation process, and induced osteolysis and inflammatory reactions. Modern iterations exhibit increased strength, smoother resorption, and lower rates of reactivity. A newer generation manufactured from silk has emerged that may address existing limitations and provide a greater range of fixation applications.
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
authors.forename: Ahmed M S
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Ibrahim
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
authors.forename: Pieter G L
authors.initials: PG
authors.lastname: Koolen
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
authors.forename: Kuylhee
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA.
authors.forename: Gabe S
authors.initials: GS
authors.lastname: Perrone
authors.affiliation: Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tufts University, 4 Colby Street, Medford, MA 02155, USA.
authors.forename: David L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: Kaplan
authors.affiliation: Division of Plastic Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 110 Francis Street, Boston, MA 02215, USA. Electronic address: sjlin@bidmc.harvard.edu.
authors.forename: Samuel J
authors.initials: SJ
authors.lastname: Lin
mesh_terms: D020341:Absorbable Implants; D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D005529:Foot Bones / Q000293:injuries*; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal / Q000295:instrumentation*; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D016268:Internal Fixators
chemical_list: D001672:Biocompatible Materials
keywords: Absorbable; Biologics; Fracture; Pins; Polyglycolic acid; Polylactic acid; Screw; Silk