A new discovery from researchers at the University of the West of England in Bristol, U.K., strengthens how bones bond to titanium orthopedic implants.
Here are five points:
1. The researchers found they can coat titanium implants used in surgery with a bioactive lipid called lysophosphatidic acid.
2. The team discovered the LPA to interact with Vitamin D to enhance bone forming cell function.
3. Around 10 percent of joint replacements fail due to loosening of the bonding implant to bones.
4. The team is working in partnership with orthopedic consultant Professor Ashley Blom, a musculoskeletal expert and co-director of the Bristol Bones and Joints Health Integration Team for the South West of England and a patient research advisory.
5. The work to date has received funding from the National Institute for Health Research, the research arm of the NHS and Orthopaedic Research UK.