Biodegradable (PLGA) Implants in Pediatric Trauma: A Brief Review

A promising alternative to traditional metal hardware in pediatric surgical care has been on the rise. Avoiding the need for hardware removal is particularly beneficial in children, who would otherwise face a second surgery with attendant risks. This brief review discusses the use of biodegradable implants, with a focus on poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) devices, for fracture fixation in the growing skeleton, as well as outlines the challenges of managing pediatric fractures with traditional fixation and how bioabsorbable implants address some of these issues. The mechanism of PLGA implant degradation is summarised, highlighting how controlled hydrolysis allows implants to provide support during healing and then safely resorb. Clinical applications are reviewed through recent studies and case examples, including forearm, distal radius, ankle, and elbow fractures, which demonstrate effective healing and outcomes comparable to metal hardware. The benefits and limitations of presently used resorbable instruments are also discussed, together with future directions in research and material innovation, including newer biodegradable polymers and alloys.