Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

A 2004 report described an experimental way to put proteins into polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), a material used in bone-replacement implants: expose protein-coated PMMA to supercritical carbon dioxide. The researchers proposed that an implant could then replace missing bone while acting as a local drug reservoir. The report did not establish that the approach was ready for surgery or that embedded drugs remained effective.

How the carbon-dioxide method worked

In the work reported by Stuart Nathan in Chemistry World on May 1, 2004, David Tomasko’s team at Ohio State University applied a protein solution to a coin-sized PMMA disc and exposed it to supercritical carbon dioxide in a glass tank.

The report says the protein penetrated 30 micrometres into the PMMA surface. The researchers described the carbon dioxide as lubricating the polymer chains, helping protein move into the material.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The disc’s interior also developed small voids as it foamed. According to the report, the amount of foaming could be controlled by changing how quickly the carbon dioxide was released. Tomasko suggested the voids might provide additional spaces to hold drugs.

Why researchers considered an implant that releases drugs

PMMA can serve as a bone-replacement material. The proposed extension was to make an implant deliver medicine near the surgical site as well as provide structural replacement. The report mentioned drugs intended to help prevent inflammation or infection after surgery, and local delivery of anticancer drugs after cancer-related bone removal. These were prospective applications, not demonstrated clinical benefits or established uses.

How sterilisation fits into the proposal

The Chemistry World report said supercritical carbon dioxide also sterilised the polymer surface. It contrasted that approach with heat, radiation and chemical sterilisation, which it said can alter the structure of drug active ingredients. This was part of the reported rationale for exploring the method; it does not establish that the resulting material met clinical sterilisation requirements.

Rank #2
Dental Typodont Implant Transparent Model, Lower Jaw Type, Removable All-on-4 Restoration Overdenture, with 4 Implants (Lower Jaw -M6027)
  • Demonstration Model: Dental Typodont Implant Transparent Model featuring removable lower jaws for demonstrating all-on-4 restoration overdenture procedures.
  • Implant Visualization: Clearly showcases the positioning of implant nails and implant situations, enabling effective patient communication and understanding.
  • Overdenture Functionality: Ideal for explaining the functioning of overdentures, making it an excellent educational tool for dental professionals.
  • Transparent Design: Transparent construction allows for clear visibility of implant placement and overdenture mechanics.
  • Versatile Application: Suitable for dentists to utilize as a visual aid when communicating with patients regarding implant-supported overdenture treatments.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

What remained unresolved in 2004

The report stated that more work was needed before the materials could be used in surgery. The team was still investigating whether drug molecules retained their effectiveness after embedding and was also looking at biodegradable materials that could release drugs after implantation.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The article does not establish what happened to the work after 2004, whether the method progressed to clinical testing, or whether any such implant is available today. It should be understood as an early research concept, not an approved treatment, validated drug-delivery system or product recommendation.

Best Value
Dental Training Model, Mandibular Bone with Removable Partial Denture, Titanium Implant Demo for Jawbone RPD Restoration-M6022-Clear
  • EDUCATIONAL PURPOSE: Professional dental training model designed for demonstrating partial denture placement and implant procedures
  • ANATOMICAL FEATURES: Accurate mandibular bone replica with realistic jawbone structure for authentic training experience
  • DEMONSTRATION COMPONENTS: Includes removable partial denture and titanium implant demonstration pieces for hands-on learning
  • PRACTICAL DESIGN: Model allows clear visualization of RPD restoration techniques and implant positioning
  • TEACHING TOOL: Ideal for dental schools, clinics, and professional training environments to explain procedures to students or patients.Weight: 64g, 2.12OZ,Size:68*53*30mm(2.64*2.04*1.18Inch).
Rank #4
4X Dental Implant Demo Model
  • EDUCATIONAL MODEL: 4x size dental implant demonstration model perfect for dental education, patient consultation, and professional training purposes
  • DETAILED COMPONENTS: Features removable crown, bridge, tooth root, gold-colored base, and blue implant for comprehensive demonstration
  • REALISTIC DESIGN: Accurately shows gum tissue, bone structure, and dental anatomy with precise detail for better understanding of implant procedures
  • DIMENSIONS: Model measures 3.54 inches in height, 3.66 inches in length, and 2.48 inches in width for easy handling and display
  • PRACTICAL FEATURES: Includes detachable parts allowing hands-on demonstration of implant placement and crown attachment process
Rank #3
GFAZXDS Dental Teeth Study Teaching Model Simulated Cancellous Bone Implant Model for Teeth Implant Practice Study,Maxilla J
  • DENTAL IMPLANT MODEL - This is an ideal implant-model for easy demonstration to patients of dental surgical and non-surgical procedures. The Dental Implant Model is suitable for dental implant implants, drilling, and bone grafting after gingival suture.
  • HIGH QUATITY - Made of high grade resin material, sturdy and durable. Don't worry about being damaged by students, it can be used for many years, so this will be a good supplement for the laboratory.
  • TEETH PRACTICE TRAINING TOOL - Using the simulation material produce the cancellous bone,can experience feeling of bone sense of cutting and resistance, simultaneously implants into the basis of the practice operation. It is your best choice for related practical research.
  • NATURAL SIZE - Normal standard size dental teeth model ,easier to show or demonstrate for patients or students. Enable students or patients to understand more clearly. One of your must-have tools, which is perfect for your presentation.
  • WIDE RANGE OF APPLICATION - Demonstration model for patient's teeth demonstrations, is excellent tool for dental offices for and also for legal presentations. In addition to teeth teaching, this teeth model it can be used by training providers for teaching demonstrations, exams and study practice or as your own collection.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.