Bioabsorbable fixation in foot and ankle

The field of bioabsorbable implants for fixation in orthopedics is new and rapidly growing. Although monomers of PGA and PLA have weaknesses, copolymers of the two polyesters have been shown to be safe and effective for several purposes. In the foot and ankle, proven indications include fixation of syndesmotic injuries, Lisfranc injuries, osteochondral defects, and tendon transfers. Bioabsorbable suture anchors, although more expensive than their metal counterparts, are available and have shown equivalent results to steel anchors. Another area which holds promise in the near future is antibiotic-releasing implants, whereas techniques, such as bioabsorbable plate fixation and structural scaffolding for tendon reconstruction, require further development.