In vitro and in vivo tests for the biological evaluation of candidate orthopedic materials: Benefits and limits

The development of reliable experimental models for the clinical use of biomaterials and in predicting implant success or failure is becoming increasingly important in attaining adequate health and safety conditions. This paper summarizes the main benefits and limits of in vitro and in vivo biological tests taking into account general pathophysiological considerations regarding the skeletal tissue. Current findings demonstrate the need to adopt both in vitro and in vivo methodologies and to improve test quality with particular attention to the ethical issues associated with in vivo experiments. (Journal of Applied Biomaterials & Biomechanics 2003; 1: 155-63).