Development of a degradable composite for orthopaedic use: mechanical evaluation of an hydroxyapatite-polyhydroxybutyrate composite material.

This study evaluates the mechanical properties of a composite material comprising polyhydroxybutyrate with hydroxyapatite added in proportions varying from 0 to 50%. Among the three methods of production, injection moulding was found to result in the most satisfactory mechanical properties. The tensile and compressive strength and the modulus of elasticity of composite produced in this way fell within the range for fresh human bone from different anatomical sites. With the additional advantages of biocompatibility, biodegradability and the potential for piezoelectric stimulation of new local bone formation, it was concluded that the injection-moulded composite material has considerable potential for use in orthopaedic surgery, both as a material to construct certain orthopaedic implants and as an alternative to corticocancellous bone graft.