Oxidized, bioactive implants are rapidly and strongly integrated in bone. Part 1 – experimental implants

Abstract

The study presented was designed to investigate the speed and the strength of osseointegration of oxidized implants at early healing times in comparison which machined, turned implants. Screw-shaped titanium implants were prepared and divided into two groups: magnesium ion incorporated, oxidized implants (Mg implants, n=10) and machined, turned implants (controls, n=10). Mg implants were prepared using micro-arc oxidation methods. Surface oxide properties of implants such as surface chemistry, oxide thickness, morphology/pore characteristics, crystal structures and roughness were characterized with various surface analytic techniques. Implants were inserted into the tibiae of ten New Zealand white rabbits. After a follow-up period of 3 and 6 weeks, removal torque (RTQ), osseointegration speed (DeltaRTQ/Deltahealing time) and integration strength of implants were measured. Bonding failure analysis of the bone-to-implant interface was performed. The speed the and strength of osseointegration of Mg implants were significantly more rapid and stronger than for turned implants at follow-up periods of 3 and 6 weeks. Bonding failure for Mg implants dominantly occurred within the bone tissue, whereas bonding failure for turned implants mainly occurred at the interface between implant and bone. Oxidized, bioactive implants are rapidly and strongly integrated in bone. The present results indicate that the rapid and strong integration of oxidized, bioactive Mg implants to bone may encompass immediate/early loading of clinical implants.