Changes in the Morphological and Mechanical Characteristics of Bone Implants upon Radiation Sterilization

Abstract

Radiation sterilization of bone implants can lead to substantial morphological changes in them and the degradation of their physical and mechanical properties, depending on the magnitude of the absorption dose. The structure of bone samples changes starting at doses of 15 kGy. Raising the dose to 25–50 kGy affects the mechanical characteristics and osteinductive properties of bone implants. Data on the morphological and mechanical changes, and their analysis and systematization, are the scientific basis for developing modern requirements and practical recommendations for further improvement of the radiation technologies for the sterilization of biological tissues.