Titanium, a strong, corrosion-resistant, and low-density metal, has long been hallowed in the medical industry for its diverse usability in clinical applications – both for humans and for animal patients.
A new scientific study looking to re-affirm the inherent safety of using the metal established in March 2021 that it remains a safe material, with only rare occasions of biological response against its presence in the body.
Whether used internally or externally, the intrinsic qualities of titanium are effective in aiding and even preventing, a range of medical problems. Advancements in science have brought new medical capabilities to diverse conditions, some well-known, and some newer.
Titanium bar
Perhaps the most simple use of titanium in medical applications is through a titanium metal bar and plate. Many will be familiar with the use of such materials to help repair and strengthen injuries such as bone breaks; however, they also have extensive applications in surgical procedures.
New research has outlined how titanium is once again making a big difference in niche semi-invasive procedures like the Nuss procedure. While noting that titanium allergies can occur, a new study published by the Journal of Advances in Dermatology and Allergology notes that reactions occur at a higher rate in steel rods.
With new technology available, there is potential for better quality titanium rods to be more appropriate for long-term use in the procedure, providing better clinical outcomes.
Titanium skeleton
Followers of comic book fiction will be well aware of a certain character who gains strength from the infusion of a mythical metal into his skeleton. One study published by Science Mag shows that this is a commonplace reality today, albeit with real-world, rather than mythical, material.
The use of titanium dioxide to infuse the skeleton through precision-engineered 3D printed components is not only helping to improve the state of damaged or diseased bones but is encouraging and stimulating new bone growth in ways previously unseen.
External tools
Titanium is being found in non-invasive tools that are having a big impact on health, too. In June 2020, CNBC reported that users of the Oura smart ring had detected coronavirus symptoms with 90% accuracy pertaining to a later diagnosis – higher than many other diagnostic tools.
Furthermore, Nevada Today has highlighted research conducted at UNR that has established that titanium surfaces exposed to UV can create a sterile layer that effectively reduces the rate of COVID particle deposition in and around the area in which it has been deployed. Simply put, the use of titanium as a base material for both diagnostic and preventative tools is leading the fight against the further spread of coronavirus.
Titanium essentially forms the foundation upon which medical advances can be found. Its non-reactive and chemically resistant nature has made it a perfect partner to the human body. With researches so advanced even in the current year, it’s exciting to imagine what medical scientists will be able to carve out as uses for the metal in the future.