To treat bone cancer, the tumor is usually removed and a titanium implant is placed to replace the diseased tissue. Patients then receive chemotherapy, which helps prevent recurrence but often causes serious side effects such as fatigue, hair loss, and digestive, kidney, and heart problems. To reduce these problems, scientists are working to create implants that can not only replace damaged areas but also deliver drugs directly to the bone.
Researchers from the Institute of Power Physics and Materials Science of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences in Tomsk have developed a coating for bone implants that slowly releases antitumor drugs. The technology is based on calcium phosphate cement, which is close in composition to natural bone tissue and perfectly combines with titanium. This cement is coated with a protective polymer layer that slows down the release of the drug and prolongs its effect. Studies have shown that the drug gradually leaves the coating, which makes the treatment more effective.
This new technology has the potential to revolutionize not only cancer treatment, but also other areas of medicine, such as traumatology and dentistry. According to Ekaterina Komarova, researchers plan to use various drugs, including antibiotics, and change the way they are administered. Experts believe that such developments could significantly reduce side effects and improve treatment outcomes.
Source: Ferra
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