Evaluation of a new Mg–Zn–Ca–Y alloy for biomedical application

Abstract

In this study, a new Mg–Zn–Ca–Y alloy was evaluated for blood compatibility and in vivo biocompatibility in rabbits after implantation in the sacral crest muscle. Blood test and HE staining was performed to examine the host response, and scanning electron microscope was used to observe the fibrous membrane and corrosion of the magnesium alloy. The results showed that hemolysis rate decreased with the Mg²⁺ concentration, in particularly, the hemolysis rate was 47.24 % for the magnesium alloy 100 % mixture solution, while was 0.1372 % for the 1 % extract solution. After implantation, the rabbits showed generally good condition, without swelling and wound secretions. One week after implantation, in the experimental group, a few lymphocytes and macrophages could be observed around the local muscle tissue, and fiber membrane structure had not yet formed; after 2 weeks, loose fiber membranes formed, while the number of inflammatory cells decreased; the fiber membrane became thinner at 4 and 12 weeks,. The fiber membrane thickness at 24 weeks were measured by scanning electron microscopy, at about 15–25 μm, which accord with the U.S. ASTM-F4 implant requirements (<30 μm). Acceptable degradation and corrosion were observed after implantation into rabbits. Through the in vivo study, the new magnesium alloy exhibited good biocompatibility and non-toxic in the experimental animals. Addition of Zn, Ca and Y can slow the degradation rate, and have acceptable side effects in vivo, resulting in improved corrosion properties and desirable biocompatibility at the same time.