Effects of hexagonal boron nitride on mechanical properties of bone cement (polymethylmethacrylate)

Objective: Bone cements have been one of the most important materials in orthopedic surgery from the first moment they were used. It is mostly used in primary and revision arthroplasty surgeries, and also filling of large bone defects due to tumors or fractures. The increasing number of arthroplasty surgeries have also increased some problems. Aseptic or septic loosening is one of the most important problems among them. In this study, we aimed to make the bone cement more durable by adding certain amounts of hexagonal boron nitride (0.5 g, 1 g, 1.5 g, 2 g) to bone cement. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted by Gazi University Medical Faculty Orthopedics and Traumatology Clinic. The laboratories of Gazi University and TOBB University were used in the study. The samples used for mechanical tests were prepared at 20 ± 2 ºC in operating room conditions, using molds in accordance with the test standards. Results: It was observed that the samples with 0.5 gr boron added to the bone cement had significantly increased mechanical strength, especially in the compression test. In the group where 2 gr boron was added, it was noted that compared to the other groups the strength pressure decreased and the porosity increased. The porosity did not change especially in the group where 0.5 gr boron was added. Discussion: In line with these findings, we see that the compression test results of the 4 groups were above the minimum requirement of 70 MPa. In the bending test, we see that the group with 2 g of boron added has a lower than the minimum requirement of 50 MPA. Significantly high compression test values of the group with 0.5 gr boron added, may suggest that low dose usage may be appropriate. It is thought that these results may guide us in further studies on this subject in the future.