Experimental studies on hydroxyapatite powder-carboxymethyl chitin composite: injectable material for bone...

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Regenerative Medicine
• Surgical Innovation

Background:

• Injectable bone graft substitutes are needed for minimally invasive procedures.
• Hydroxyapatite (HA) and carboxymethyl chitin (CMC) composites offer potential for bone regeneration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate an injectable HA-CMC composite for bone augmentation.
• To assess the biocompatibility, osteoconductivity, and volume stability of two HA-CMC formulations.

Main Methods:

• Developed injectable HA-CMC composites (Materials I and II with varying HA content).
• Injected materials into rat calvarial bone defects and abdominal skin subdermal pockets.
• Evaluated biocompatibility, osteoconductivity (with and without periosteum), and volume changes over time.

Main Results:

• Both HA-CMC composites demonstrated high biocompatibility, comparable to existing HA materials.
• Osteoconductivity was not significantly affected by HA concentration, but periosteum hindered bone ingrowth.
• Material I exhibited significantly less volume alteration than Material II.
• Injectable nature allows administration via a 14G needle with a small skin stab.

Conclusions:

• The injectable HA-CMC composite is a promising material for facial bone augmentation.
• Material I (higher HA content) is preferred for volume stability.
• Periosteal removal is recommended to enhance bone ingrowth when using this composite for augmentation.