Histological evaluation and surface componential analysis of modified micro-arc oxidation-treated titanium implants

The objective of this study is to investigate soft tissue and bone tissue reaction to titanium implants treated by a modified micro arc oxidation (MAO) technique, and analyze the surface components and implant-bone contact ratio by animal experiments to evaluate the osseointegration condition of implants with this modified MAO surface. MAO titanium plates were installed subcutaneously in rabbits. Tissue reaction was evaluated by HE sections. MAO titanium implants designed for endosseous examination were installed in Beagles' femurs. Bone tissue surrounding implants was analyzed histologically. Surfaces of retrieved implants were observed and examined by SEM and EDX. All procedures were performed under the control of untreated pure titanium implants. Thin homogeneous fibrous envelope could be found without apparent inflammation cells infiltration around the subcutaneously imbedded MAO titanium plates, which was almost same as control group. Fast osteoid deposition comprising high content of calcium, phosphor, carbon, and nitrogen elements was found on the retrieved MAO implant surfaces, while comparatively less amount of carbon and nitrogen elements were found on the retrieved implants of control group. Matured bone tissue comprising bone trabeculae and Haversian canals appeared in 8 weeks, while it took 12 weeks needed to form matured bone tissue in control group. In conclusion, MAO titanium materials shows good biocompatibility and calcium phosphate inducement capability in vivo and could accelerate bone tissue growth and shorten the osseointegration time.