This research explored the influence of surface modification of AZ91 Mg alloy on the biodegradation, bioactivity, mechanical integrity and cytocompatibility of the alloy. For this purpose, a nanostructured bredigite (Ca7MgSi4O16) ceramic coating was prepared on biodegradable AZ91 Mg alloy through anodic spark deposition and electrophoretic deposition method. The phase composition and surface morphology of the coated alloy were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope. The properties of samples were investigated by electrochemical measurements, immersion test, compression examination and cell culturing. The results showed that the degradation resistance, bioactivity, mechanical integrity and cytocompatibility of biodegradable Mg alloy were improved by the anodic spark deposition and electrophorretic deposition of the nanostructured bredigite coating. Therefore, the nanostructured bredigite ceramic coating is identified as a good coating for AZ91 Mg alloy for the purpose of making biodegradable metallic orthopedic implants.