China's oyster-inspired 'bone glue' bonds fractures in minutes

Yes, Chinese scientists have developed a new type of "bone glue" called Bone-02 to repair broken bones. The innovative, bio-absorbable adhesive is inspired by the way oysters cling to wet surfaces. How Bone-02 works : Rapid bonding: Bone-02 is designed to be injected into a fracture site and sets within two to three minutes, even in blood-rich surgical environments. Less invasive: The glue can fix broken bone fragments together using a small incision, avoiding the need for larger, invasive surgeries to insert metal plates and screws. Bio-absorbable: Unlike metal hardware, Bone-02 is naturally absorbed by the body over several months as the bone heals, eliminating the need for a second surgery to remove implants. Strength: In initial tests, the adhesive has demonstrated a strong bonding force of over 400 pounds. Fewer infections: Early trials suggest the use of the glue may lead to fewer infections compared to procedures involving metal plates. Clinical trials and future outlook : Developed by a research team at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital affiliated with Zhejiang University, Bone-02 has been tested in over 150 patients with promising results for minor fractures and joint injuries. The technology is still in early-stage trials, and detailed peer-reviewed results are pending. If further trials confirm its effectiveness, Bone-02 could be a revolutionary tool in orthopedic surgery, offering a faster and less invasive treatment option, particularly for complex fractures.