Chinese researchers have claimed to have developed a breakthrough medical bone glue that can repair fractures and shattered bone fragments in just three minutes — a potential game-changer in orthopaedic treatment.

The adhesive, dubbed “Bone-02”, was unveiled by a research team in East China’s Zhejiang Province on Wednesday (10 September), according to Global Times, reports NDTV.

Lin Xianfeng, the team leader and associate chief orthopaedic surgeon at Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, said he found inspiration for the innovation after observing oysters clinging firmly to a bridge underwater.

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As per Lin, the adhesive can achieve precise fixation within two to three minutes, even in a blood-rich environment. The glue can also be naturally absorbed by the body as the bone heals, eliminating the need for another surgery to remove implants.

Could it replace metal implants?

Lab tests confirmed that Bone-02 performed well in both safety and effectiveness. In one of the trials, the procedure was completed in under 180 seconds, while conventional treatment methods would have required a large incision to implant steel plates and screws.

According to CCTV, the bone glue has already been successfully tested in more than 150 patients. The glued bones showed a maximum bonding force of over 400 pounds, a shear strength of about 0.5 MPa, and a compressive strength of around 10 MPa — figures that suggest it may one day replace traditional metal implants.

Scientists noted that the glue could also help reduce risks of post-surgical reactions and infections.

Past attempts fell short

Currently, bone cements and void fillers are widely used in orthopaedic treatment but none offer adhesive properties. Attempts at bone adhesives date back to the 1940s, when products based on gelatin, epoxy resins, and acrylates were developed but later abandoned over biocompatibility concerns.

With Bone-02, scientists believe they may have finally cracked the code to a long-sought medical innovation.