A state-of-the-art review on recent advances in the fabrication and characteristics of magnesium-based alloys in biomedical applications
Fatemeh Akbarzadeh, Masoud Sarraf, Erfan Rezvani Ghomi, Vishnu Vijay Kumar, Mojtaba Salehi, Seeram Ramakrishna, Sungchul Bae
Abstract
Magnesium (Mg) and its alloys have recently gained increasing attention in the biomedical field as promising biodegradable materials with harmless degradation products. Magnesium-based alloys have a wide range of biomedical applications because of their outstanding biocompatibility and unique mechanical properties. Widespread use of Mg-based biomedical devices eliminates the need for post-healing biomaterial removal surgery and minimizes the negative consequences of the implantation of permanent biomaterials, including stress shielding and undesired metal ion release in the body. This paper provides a literature review on the properties and manufacturing methods of Mg-based alloys for biomedical applications, including orthopedic implants, cardiovascular applications, surgical wires and staplers, and antitumor activities. Each application of Mg-based biomaterials is investigated from a biological perspective, including matching functional properties, biocompatibility, host tissue responses, and anti-microbial strategies, along with potential additive manufacturing technologies for these applications. Finally, an outlook is presented to provide recommendations for Mg-based biomaterials in the future.