Preparation of Biodegradable Mg-Based Composites and Their Recent Advances in Orthopedic Applications

Biodegradable Mg-based materials have emerged as a promising class of orthopedic implants in the 21st century, owing to their excellent osteogenic properties and an elastic modulus similar to that of cortical bone. This review summarizes the current applications and development trends of Mg- based composites in bone repair. First, the fabrication methods of Mg-based composites, along with their advantages and disadvantages, are discussed. Second, the impact of reinforcement on the mechanical properties and degradation behavior of these composites is examined. Third, preclinical studies on the use of Mg-based composites in fracture fixation and bone defect repair are reviewed, confirming their bioactivity and clinical safety. Fourth, the effects of the degradation behavior of Mg-based composites on stem cell osteogenic differentiation and the related molecular mechanisms are explored. Finally, the challenges of applying Mg-based composites for bone repair based on existing preclinical studies are outlined, and potential future advancements are proposed.