Controlled Self-Coating of Implant Surfaces with Autologous Molecules

Implant fixation is correlated with direct bone apposition on the implant surface. In a former study it was reported that a new coating material enhances the bone-to-implant-contact in comparison to machined and rough surfaces. This study is aimed at clarifying the effect of an enhanced bone-to-implant-contact that is induced by a new coating material. The coating is produced by spin and spray coating and consists of a silica matrix, in which nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite is embedded. The coating material exhibits a high porosity in the micrometer and nanometer scale. Coated implants were inserted subcutaneously in Wistar Rats. The specimens were excised after 6 and 12 days. EDX and SEM analysis showed a reduction of the silica amount within 6 days. In accordance to former results of a bone grafting material with the same structure, this matrix change is responsible for an initial-bone formation at early stages.