Maltese Researchers Unveil Biodegradable ‘Scaffold’, Hastening Bone Regeneration In Orthopaedic Patients

Maltese researchers have unveiled a ‘graft’ that could hasten the recovery of patients in cases where a substantial part of bone is missing.

Bone ailments like fractures often require surgeries to create a graft, and sometimes, surgeons have to install metal hardware to repair the damage. This, however, causes the bone stock to diminish over time.

With Biosa, however, the healing process in patients suffering such conditions can now be aided by way of a ‘scaffold’ that serves to strengthen the connecting bones. 

Thanks to this innovative structure, the ‘scaffold’ will solve a wide array of problems because it allows human bone to reform on its own more easily.

It’s not only patient-specific but also entirely biodegradable. In addition, it’s a cheaper alternative to current recovery processes. 

Speaking at the event of its launch was Parliamentary Secretary for Research and Innovation Keith Azzopardi Tanti who hailed the project as one that could improve the quality of several patients, if not also the current practice in the field of medicine.

BioSa was spearheaded by Joseph Buhagiar from the University of Malta, in collaboration with Mater Dei Hospital. It was funded by a Research and Innovation program administered by MCST with a fund of around €200,000.

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