NanoPED, FHNW School of Life Sciences

At present, neurosurgery mostly makes use of non-resorbable metallic implants. These permanent materials can lead to adverse effects over time and may need to be removed in follow-up surgery. Each additional intervention carries further risks of complications and imposes a burden on both the patient and the healthcare system.

In the Nano-Argovia project NanoPed, researchers led by project manager Dr. Romy Marek are investigating materials that fully degrade in the body and are suitable for neurosurgical procedures. Due to the disadvantages of existing resorbable implants made from polymers, the interdisciplinary team is focusing on degradable metals made of a magnesium alloy.

The industrial partner in the project, Kairos Medical AG, is contributing an alloy whose strength and formability can be adjusted to meet different mechanical requirements. This is achieved using nanoscale magnesium-calcium (Mg2 Ca) particles.

Together, the project team is examining will how the size and distribution of the Mg2 Ca particles in the alloy influence the material’s degradation in the body. They will also analyse a special protective coating designed to chemically stabilize the implant surface and thereby further optimize its degradation behavior. The aim is to identify the coating properties that slow down degradation and to establish how the coating behaves under mechanical stress.

Overall, the project aims to develop better and safer implants for neurosurgery — with fewer interventions and improved healing outcomes.