The purpose of this study was to assess the removability and
biological reactivity of an ultrahigh molecular weight
polyethylene (
UHMWPE) fiber cable as a new
biomaterial for osteosynthesis. We used a pull-out test and an implantation test to analyze the performance of the
UHMWPE fiber cable using a dog model, and compared its characteristics with those of a wire cable and a soft wire. In the pull-out test, the
UHMWPE fiber cable was as easy to remove as the soft wire, and both the
UHMWPE fiber cable and the soft wire were significantly easier to remove than the wire cable. The fixation capability and the
biological reactivity of the
UHMWPE fiber cable were examined in an osteosynthesis model of the dog greater trochanter, and were compared with those of the soft wire. The bone union rate, assessed radiographically, was very similar when using the
UHMWPE fiber cable and the soft wire. However, in the soft wire group, both the surface of the greater trochanter under the fixation material and the penetration area around the fixation material showed an increased tendency toward a
biological reaction, including
inflammation and granulation tissue formation, as compared to the
UHMWPE fiber cable group. The
UHMWPE fiber cable was as easily removed from the bone tissue as the soft wire, and was easier to remove than the wire cable. Additionally, the
UHMWPE fiber cable caused reduced
biological reactivity with the surrounding tissue, as compared with the soft wire. In conclusion, the
UHMWPE fiber cable appeared to be a suitable fixation material for osteosynthesis.