Formulation of α-Tricalcium Phosphate Bone Cement Based on an Alginate-Chitosan Gel System

A new formulation of a-tncalcium phosphate (alpha-TCP) bone cement with controllable hydration was developed by employing an internal polymeric gel network. Conjunction of two Ca-chelating agents, sodium alginate (SA), and chitosan (CS), induced the rapid generation of an alginate-chitosan gel system within the cement. It provided a cohesive force for the cement paste and encouraged formation of new products comprising octacalcium phosphate and brushite with high biodegradability and osteoconductivity. Because of the synergistic effect of SA and CS, a good balance of handling and mechanical properties of the cements was optimized. This formulation of alpha-TCP cement can be applied for developing bone cements for clinical potentials.