Daijiworld Media Network – Zhejiang

Zhejiang, Sep 13: In a breakthrough for orthopaedic medicine, Chinese researchers have developed a medical bone glue that can repair fractures and shattered bone fragments in just three minutes. Dubbed “Bone-02,” the adhesive was unveiled on September 10 by a research team in East China’s Zhejiang Province, according to the Global Times.

Lin Xianfeng, associate chief orthopaedic surgeon at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital and leader of the project, said he drew inspiration from observing oysters that cling tightly to underwater bridges. Lin explained that the adhesive achieves precise fixation within two to three minutes even in a blood-rich environment, and it is naturally absorbed by the body as the bone heals—eliminating the need for a second surgery to remove implants.

Laboratory tests confirmed the safety and effectiveness of Bone-02. In one trial, a procedure using the glue was completed in under 180 seconds, compared with conventional treatments that require large incisions to insert steel plates and screws. CCTV reported the product has already been successfully tested in over 150 patients.

The glued bones showed a maximum bonding force exceeding 400 pounds, a shear strength of about 0.5 MPa, and a compressive strength around 10 MPa, suggesting the adhesive could eventually replace traditional metal implants and reduce risks of infection or allergic reaction.

While bone cements and void fillers are available on the market, none possess true adhesive properties. Early attempts at bone adhesives in the 1940s, using gelatine, epoxy resins and acrylates, were abandoned due to biocompatibility issues. Researchers say Bone-02 may finally fulfill the long-sought “holy grail” of fracture repair.