Bone-hydroxyapatite interface in retrieved hydroxyapatite-coated titanium implants: a clinical and histologic report

Two hydroxyapatite-coated implants were retrieved after 12 months of loading because of a fracture of the abutments. The specimens were treated to obtain thin ground sections, and a microprobe chemical analysis was done under a scanning electron microscope equipped with an energy-dispersive x-ray analysis and cathodoluminescence system. Under light microscopy, close contact between the bone and the hydroxyapatite coating was seen, with no gaps at the interface. In some areas of the coating a reduction of the coating thickness could be observed, along with the presence of some detached hydroxyapatite particles embedded in newly formed bone. The chemical analysis of the cathodoluminescent areas at the interface showed a reduced calcium:phosphorus ratio in this region.