Stability of bioactive bone graft substitutes exposed to different aging and sterilization conditions

Abstract

AbstractBioactive glasses have been used for many years as bone graft substitutes in orthopedic and dental applications as well as an additive in toothpastes, cosmetics, and cosmeceutical products. The interest of using bioactive glass comes from its ability to dissolve and release dissolution products that stimulate bone regeneration. Porous bioactive glass scaffolds that can provide structural support while bone is growing into the structure have generated interest. However, little data is available in the literature on the effect of environmental conditions or sterilization treatments on the structure and properties of these materials. This study presents the evolution of the structure and microstructure of bioactive foams exposed to different accelerated and real‐time aging conditions and sterilization treatments. The results indicate that the material is relatively stable. For example, different sterilization methods (steam, ethylene oxide, hydrogen peroxide, gamma‐rays) have limited effect on the structure and properties of the foams. However, carbonate species may form on the surface of the material when exposed to CO2 and humidity. Some carbonates dissolve rapidly in water and may impact the pH of the solution. Adequate packaging should limit the reaction of the bioactive glass with CO2 and humidity and the formation of carbonate.