Revolutionary ‘Bone Glue’ Heals Fractures in Minutes, Not Months

Researchers in China have developed a groundbreaking bio-adhesive known as Bone-02, which has the potential to transform fracture treatment. This innovative material can repair bone fractures in as little as three minutes and is designed to dissolve naturally as the body heals, eliminating the need for traditional metal plates and screws.

The adhesive was created by a team from the Zhejiang University School of Medicine and Xiaoshan Hospital, led by Professor Pan Xunwu. After nearly a decade of research, the team drew inspiration from the natural adhesive properties of oysters, which can bond effectively to wet surfaces. This discovery is being hailed as a significant advancement in orthopaedic medicine and could impact millions of patients worldwide.

Traditional methods of fracture repair often lead to complications such as the loss of bone fragments and delayed recovery. Professor Pan noted, “In the process, bone fragments were often lost, reducing bone mass and ultimately negatively impacting patients’ quality of life,” as reported by Chosun Ilbo. In contrast, Bone-02 is designed to bond bone fragments even in blood-rich environments, significantly improving the repair process.

Clinical Trials and Efficacy

Bone-02’s development involved extensive experimentation, including hundreds of formulation changes and animal trials. The adhesive meets the critical requirements of biocompatibility and adhesive strength, which are essential for effective bone repair. Unlike traditional metal implants, which often necessitate a second surgery for removal, Bone-02 is fully biodegradable and absorbed by the body within six months. This characteristic reduces the risk of infection and eliminates the need for follow-up procedures.

In clinical trials involving over 150 patients, Bone-02 demonstrated remarkable efficacy. For instance, one patient with a comminuted wrist fracture had their bone fragments fixed in just three minutes through a small incision measuring only 2–3 cm. In contrast, conventional treatments would have required a larger incision and subsequent removal surgery a year later. Three months post-surgery, the patient’s wrist function was fully restored without complications.

The adhesive showcases impressive metrics, including a tensile strength capable of withstanding over 181 kg, a compressive strength of approximately 10 MPa, and a shear strength around 0.5 MPa. These figures indicate that Bone-02 could rival or even replace traditional steel plates and screws.

Future Implications

According to Lin Xianfeng, associate chief orthopaedic surgeon at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and co-lead researcher, Bone-02 could revolutionise the treatment of fractures. The adhesive’s rapid bonding and ease of use may significantly shorten surgery times and reduce intraoperative damage. Furthermore, the glue addresses longstanding challenges in bone adhesive development, which have persisted since the 1940s. Previous attempts using materials like gelatin and epoxy were abandoned due to poor biocompatibility and insufficient strength.

Bone-02 is currently undergoing multi-centre randomised controlled trials, considered the gold standard for regulatory approval. If these trials are successful, the adhesive could be available in hospitals around the globe within the next few years. Medical experts express cautious optimism about the results, noting that further peer-reviewed studies and adherence to international safety standards are necessary.

Early indications suggest that Bone-02 may offer millions of patients a faster and safer path to recovery from fractures. As this revolutionary adhesive continues its journey through clinical trials, it holds the promise of reshaping orthopaedic practices in the near future.