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Article: New techniques improve success. (researchers are developing new technologies and materials for bone, tooth, and joint implants that will rival natural versions)(Brief Article)
- Article from:
- USA TODAY
- Article date:
- October 1, 1996
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 1996 Society for the Advancement of Education. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Each year, almost 500,000 patients receive hip implants worldwide, about the same number need bone reconstruction due to injuries or congenital defects, and 16,000,000 Americans lose teeth and may require dental implants. While available implants can alleviate excruciating pain and allow patients to live more active lives, there often are problems getting bone to attach to the metal devices. Small gaps between natural bone and the implant can increase over time, requiring the need for additional surgery to replace the implant.
Long-lasting implants that can attach permanently to bone could save many patients the pain, risk, and expense of undergoing repeat ...