A practice‐orientated study of the complex „processing and handling–application–resultant properties”︁ of autopolymerizing PMMA bone cements

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Abstract
Bone cements which are used for the fixation of alloplasties as well as for filling and/or bridging of bone defects had been intensively investigated during the past 15 years. Scientists payed close attention to the subjects of “biocompatibility in view of chemical and thermal effects; polymerization process; structure and properties of bone cements”. As a rule, especially tests for the evaluation of strength properties were carried out with more or less standardized and relatively small specimen. The fund of experience, obtained by the methods mentioned above, don't let us hope to have any further significant progress concerning the transferability of these results to practise. A possible step further in the approximation of model experiments with respect to practical problems in the author's opinion should be the methodically combination of the known single aspects to a larger total complex. As a start in this direction a testing method was developed which enables processing and insertion of bone cements as well as the implantation of endoprostheses‐shafts into tubular spaces under similar geometrical and thermal conditions as they are present in big tubular bones.Shape and dimensions of the originated bone cement‐ “quivers” or “jackets” are chosen in a way that experiments are practicable for the comparison of different types of bone cements and implantating methods as well as the testing of intended or unintended admixtures (for example X‐ray contrast agent, antibiotics, blood) with respect to the mechanical loading capacity.Furthermore comparisons with the results of conventional mechanical material testings are possible.The contruction of the testing apparatus and the testing procedure will be presented. Its applicability for tests to compare different types of bone cements with respect to the parameters “processing and insertion method”, “implantating endoprostheses‐shafts” and “admixtures” will be discussed by means of obtained results. Finally the question is asced wether a method like this can be an aid for training and objectively valuation of the methodical abilities of budding operating surgeons in this field.

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