In situ forming implants for local chemotherapy and hyperthermia of bone tumors

Hyperthermia, an established adjuvant in cancer treatment, potentiates the effects of anticancer drugs and synergetic combination can be obtained, improving the therapeutic outcome. Bone metastases may benefit from this combination when treated through in situ forming implants. Once loaded with magnetizable (nano-) particles and antineoplastic agents, these implants allow for the local application of magnetically induced hyperthermia and the release of an anticancer drug. The implant can be heated by applying an external magnetic field, sensitizing the surrounding tumoral tissues, while releasing the chemotherapeutic agent. Moreover, bone implants provide mechanical support to the weakened bone and consequently relieve pain. This review gives an overview of the current knowledge as well as the rationale of combining locally both magnetic hyperthermia and chemotherapy using in situ forming implants in the field of bone metastases treatment.