What Does Bone Cement Smell Like?: The Medical Scent of Orthopedic Surgery
•
4 min read
According to reports from operating room staff, bone cement, specifically the chemical component methyl methacrylate (MMA), emits a very pungent, acrid odor often compared to a nail salon or fruity chemical during preparation. This strong, recognizable smell is a key characteristic of the material's chemical polymerization, and is a well-documented aspect of many orthopedic procedures.