Analysis of the influence of gentamicin sulfate and cooling technique on the mechanical properties of Poly (methyl methacrylate)

Abstract

Poly (methyl methacrylate) is a polymer widely used in various biomedical applications. In orthopedics, this polymer may be used as a structural reinforcement in fracture, aiding bone regeneration. To avoid fracture contamination, surgeons may add a certain homogeneously amount of antimicrobial to the Poly (methyl methacrylate). To prevent thermal necrosis during polymerization, which can reach up to 100° C, cooling techniques are used, to ensure the cells integrity during the process. Despite the great importance of Poly (methyl methacrylate) as a biomaterial, there is still a lack of information on the mechanical properties of this polymer, especially when there is modifications on Poly (methyl methacrylate) composition and its preparation temperature. This work aims to evaluate the influence of the addition of Gentamicin Sulfate and application of cooling technique on the mechanical behavior of Poly (methyl methacrylate) in three commercial types. For this, the mechanical tests of compression, bending and torsion were performed. With these tests it was found that, despite the reduction of the mechanical resistance of Poly (methyl methacrylate) with the cooling technique and antimicrobial addition, the polymer can still be safely used as bone cement.

DOI:https://doi.org/10.56238/uniknowindevolp-133