Resorbable polymers for internal fixation.

Bone fractures are usually fixed with metallic internal and/or external fixation devices. Such devices have to be removed from the implantation site, once the bone fracture is healed. Metallic devices may also corrode in vivo releasing ions into the tissues. An ideal internal fixation device should allow adequate fracture fixation, immediate recovery of mobility of the limb, and be produced from a material which can be safely left at the implantation site when the fracture healing is completed. Resorbable polymers are candidates for construction of such devices.