A New Method for Assessing the Rate of Biodegradation of Magnesium Alloy-Based Products in an In Vivo Experiment

Magnesium alloys have emerged as a promising materials for temporary implants in medical applications due to their favorable biomechanical properties and biocompatibility. Their natural degradation within the body minimizes the need for surgical removal, making them particularly attractive for use in orthopedics, dentistry, and veterinary medicine. However, the formation of gas cavities during degradation poses significant challenges, adversely affecting mechanical stability and healing outcomes. This study aims to develop a quantitative method for assessing gas cavity volumes around magnesium alloy screws, comparing it with existing imaging techniques, including computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound diagnostics. A systematic review of research articles identified CT as the most effective method, offering high accuracy and detailed three-dimensional imaging capabilities, though it has limitations such as cost and radiation exposure. Our experimental work involved implanting magnesium screws in a rat model to analyze gas cavity formation. Our results indicated that Mg-2 wt.%Zn-2 wt.%Ga screws resulted in the moderate formation of a gas cavity. The findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate measurement techniques for evaluating gas cavity dynamics, which are critical for optimizing clinical outcomes and improving patient care. Future research should explore integrating advanced technologies such as machine learning to enhance image analysis and visualization efficiency in clinical settings.