Abstract
A novel polyphosphazene/hydroxyapatite matrix was developed for use in the replacement of damaged natural bone. The calcium-chelating polymer poly[bis(carboxylatophenoxy)-phosphazene] was precipitated in solution with hydroxyapatite formed from dicalcium phosphate dihydrate and tetracalcium phosphate. This matrix demonstrated compressive strengths above 21 MPa with load cycling, while having reaction conditions at physiological pH and temperature. Microanalysis of the matrix revealed a high temperature dependence of the submicron morphology and the ability of the polymer to interconnect and nucleate hydroxyapatite particles. This matrix is a putative replacement for damaged bone due to its hardy physical properties, inoffensive solution chemistry and ability to be broken down and resorbed by the host during the formation of natural bone.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Journal | Journal of Investigative Medicine |
| Volume | 47 |
| Issue number | 2 |
| State | Published - Jan 1 1999 |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology(all)