Nanotechnology in orthopedics: a clinically oriented review

Abstract

The utility of nanotechnology in medicine, specifically within the field of orthopedics, is a topic of extensive research. Our review provides a unique comprehensive overview of the current and potential future uses of nanotechnology with respect to orthopedic sub-specialties. Nanotechnology offers an immense assortment of novel applications, most notably the use of nanomaterials as scaffolds to induce a more favorable interaction between orthopedic implants and native bone. Nanotechnology has the capability to revolutionize the diagnostics and treatment of orthopedic surgery, however the long-term health effects of nanomaterials are poorly understood and extensive research is needed regarding clinical safety.

Fig. 1

Diagram outlining the domains and applications of nanotechnology within orthopedics

Fig. 2

Illustration showing the basic structure of a carbon nanotube. These materials are of significant interest in multiple realms of orthopedics including nerve regeneration, implant scaffold engineering, and drug delivery

Fig. 3

Diagram demonstrating the fundamental principle of drug delivery using nanoparticles. This method not only allows for more precise drug targeting, but also greater control of drug release in treating bone cancer, prosthetic joint infections, and osteomyelitis

Fig. 4

Nanostructured implants may better mimic the environment of native bone, and stimulate implant osseointegration and surrounding osteogenesis to a greater degree than conventional implants. This illustration shows a magnified nanoengineered implant surface and its topographical interaction with adjacent bone

Fig. 5

Regenerative techniques using human MSCs to treat osteochondral defects have had limited success, however nanotechnology may enhance the efficacy of these therapies. This diagram demonstrates the typical sequence of events for MSC treatment using nanotechnology. MSCs are first harvested from the patient and cultured in a growth medium (a). Once differentiated into chondrocytes (b), these cells are implanted onto the desired scaffold material, cultured in a bioreactor (c), and reimplanted into the patient (d)

Fig. 6

This illustration highlights the elemental layout of a nanocomposite scaffold compared to a conventional composite. The addition of nanoparticles to the general structure allows for more effective adhesion of surrounding osteoblasts