Glue that mends broken bones
Researchers within polymer technology at KTH that have developed a unique glue to stick bone fractures together have received new financing within the EU FET Proactive Programme.
The funds are to be used to further develop the technology with the aim of being able to apply the glue to more types of fractures where the bone is not self-healing, such as in the case of bone cancer. The technology builds on a material platform, based on degradable carbonate polymers, that are injected into large holes in the bone to allow the body to generate new bone. The glue sets the fracture and then several layers of material can be applied as necessary.
Following this treatment, the fracture can grow together and the body can heal itself. It is hoped that the use of metal plates and screws can then be phased out. The research is headed by Professor Michael Malkoch , of the Division of Coating Technology. Post doctor scholar Daniel Hutchinson is coordinating the EU project, that involves six partners.
Text Christer Gummeson