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The early tissue response to titanium and LactoSorb screws
Nur Mollaoglu1, Sedat Cetiner, Cansu Alpaslan
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey. nmollaoglu@hotmail.com
Summary
Titanium and LactoSorb screws are safe for elderly maxillofacial fracture repair, showing similar bone formation. LactoSorb offers potential advantages due to its slower biodegradation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Maxillofacial fractures are prevalent in the elderly population.
- Titanium and LactoSorb screws are standard materials for fixation.
- Evaluating tissue response in elderly models is crucial for material selection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare early tissue response to titanium and LactoSorb screws in an elderly animal model.
- To assess bone formation and biodegradation of these materials.
- To determine the safety and efficacy of these implants in older patients.
Main Methods:
- Utilized 44 elderly guinea pigs (10-11 months old).
- Implanted 22 titanium and 22 LactoSorb screws (82% PLLA, 18% PGA) into calvaria.
- Performed histological and histometric analysis at 3, 7, 14, 30, and 60 days post-operation.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in new bone formation between LactoSorb and titanium screws.
- LactoSorb screw biodegradation was incomplete by day 60.
- Both materials demonstrated good tissue tolerance and induced bone formation without adverse reactions.
Conclusions:
- Both LactoSorb and titanium implants are well-tolerated in elderly animal models for maxillofacial fractures.
- LactoSorb's slower biodegradation may provide prolonged support during fracture healing in the elderly.
- LactoSorb could be a preferred option due to avoidance of a second removal surgery.