2 Orthopedic inventions on CNN’s list of Top 10 Health Innovations in 2009

       #4 - a bone graft substitute made from wood
Researchers in Italy have discovered a way to convert a block of wood into a bone graft substitute, which produces a "bioactive, inorganic compound" that "closely resembles" the structure of natural bone. To create the implant, the team heats wood - noting that red oak, rattan and sipo work best - until it's pure carbon. Then the carbon is sprayed with calcium, creating a calcium carbide. The material then undergoes additional processes to produce the final product, which is a carbonated hydroxyapatite. The method costs about $850 for one bloc...