Orthopedic Applications of Silicon Nitride Ceramics

Author

B. Sonny Bal
M. N. Rahaman, Missouri University of Science and TechnologyFollow

Editor(s)

Wagner, W. R.

Abstract

Silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) is a ceramic material developed for industrial applications that demand high strength and fracture resistance under extreme operating conditions. Recently, Si₃N₄ has been used as an orthopedic biomaterial, to promote bone fusion in spinal surgery and to develop bearings that can improve the wear and longevity of prosthetic hip and knee joints. Si3N4 has been implanted in human patients for over 3 years now, and clinical trials with Si₃N₄ femoral heads in prosthetic hip replacement are contemplated. This review will provide background information and data relating to Si₃N₄ ceramics that will be of interest to engineering and medical professionals.

Recommended Citation

B. S. Bal and M. N. Rahaman, "Orthopedic Applications of Silicon Nitride Ceramics," Acta Biomaterialia, vol. 8, no. 8, pp. 2889 - 2898, Elsevier, Jan 2012.

The definitive version is available at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.actbio.2012.04.031

Department(s)

Materials Science and Engineering

Keywords and Phrases

Silicon Nitride; Biomaterials; Ceramics; Hip and Knee Replacement

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

1742-7061

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2012 Elsevier, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2012