Fabrication of biporous low-crystalline apatite based on mannitol dissolution from apatite cement

Biporous (macro- and microporous) calcium phosphate gains much attention as a bone substitute material because of its large surface area and that it improves cell penetration. In the present study, we evaluated the feasibility of biporous, low-crystalline apatite based on dissolution of mannitol from self-setting apatite cement (Biopex). Mannitol--known as a biocompatible, easily dissolved monosaccharide alcohol--was recrystallized to obtain larger crystals. It was crushed with pestle and mortar, sieved to obtain crystals which passed through a 500-microm mesh but which remained against a 300-microm mesh, and then used as porogen. Although Biopex containing 60 wt% mannitol was not able to be taken out of the mold, addition of mannitol caused no initial setting inhibition to Biopex if the amount was 40 wt% or less. Similarly, transformation to apatitic product was confirmed when the apatite cement was immersed in 0.9% saline kept at 37 degrees C for seven days. The set mass became low-crystalline, biporous apatite with approximately 60% porosity.