China-developed bone glue claims to fix fractures in minutes

Chinese researchers have developed a bone adhesive called Bone-02 that, according to reported accounts, can fix shattered bone fragments in about three minutes with a single injection. The approach aims to speed recovery for orthopedic injuries that typically require months of downtime and, in some cases, invasive surgeries involving metal plates and screws, the Global Times reported.

In one wrist-fracture trial described by Cho Sun Daily, a patient received the injection through a 3-centimeter incision and was reportedly healed in three minutes. The outlet noted that conventional repair would require hardware and could necessitate a second operation to remove it; at a three-month follow-up, the fracture was said to have fully healed without complications.

Researchers said Bone-02 bonds work in blood-rich, moist environments and cited the mollusk oyster as inspiration for adhesives that can form durable bonds underwater. The developers also said the substance is naturally absorbed by the body as the bone heals, potentially eliminating the need for a second surgery to remove implants. Early tests reportedly showed fewer infections than metal-plate procedures.

The reports do not indicate regulatory approval status or broader clinical trials beyond the described cases. If validated through further testing, Bone-02 could shorten healing times for certain fractures and reduce reliance on metal hardware, though widespread use would require additional research and regulatory clearance.