Combined Effect of Phosphate and Polymer Coating on Cytotoxicity and Hemocompatibility of Iron Foams

The use of resorbable metallic biomaterials for temporary implants has increased dramatically in the last decade. Degradable biomaterials are desirable in some specific pediatric, orthopedic, and cardiovascular applications, in which they may overcome the disadvantages of permanent devices. The three main biodegradable metals: Mg, Fe, and Zn, are intensively studied as temporary orthopedic implant materials. Among them, iron, and iron-based alloys, have received attention as promising materials for the temporary replacement of bones, especially for applications where strong mechanical support during the bone healing process is required. The addition of a low amount of phosphorus can improve the mechanical properties of such materials without the risk of retarding the corrosion rate or affecting cell proliferation. The main goal of this work was to study the combined effect of phosphating and polymer coating of open-cell iron foams on their cytotoxicity and hemocompatibility. Obtained results indicated the positive influence of the PEG coating layer and phosphorus addition on material cytocompatibility. Moreover, the combination of these procedures led to the inhibition of hemolysis, platelet adhesion, and thrombus formation.