Comparative radiopacity of bone graft materials.
Gurel Pekkan1, Alper Aktas, Keriman Pekkan
1Dumlupinar University, Department of Dentistry, Merkez Kampus, Tavsanli Yolu 10. Km., Kutahya, Turkey. gurelp@gmail.com
Summary
This study compared the radiopacity of bone graft materials (BGMs) to natural bone and dentin. Most BGMs showed insufficient radiopacity for clear radiographic detection within mandibular bone.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Dental Materials
- Radiology
Background:
- Radiopacity is crucial for assessing bone graft material (BGM) integration and placement.
- Accurate radiographic visualization of BGMs is essential for clinical evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the radiopacity of various bone graft materials (BGMs) with bovine mandibular cortical bone and human dentine.
- To determine if BGMs possess adequate radiopacity for radiographic detection in the mandible.
Main Methods:
- Radiopacity was assessed by measuring optical density of eight BGM samples (Dexabone®, Bio-Oss®, 4BONE SBS, KASIOS® TCP, S.C. PONETI, Apatite-Wollastonite) and controls using a transmission densitometer.
- Radiographic images were compared against bovine mandibular cortical bone, human dentine, and an aluminum step wedge.
- Statistical analysis included Kruskal-Wallis and Duncan's multiple range tests (α=0.05).
Main Results:
- Apatite-Wollastonite (AW) exhibited the highest radiopacity among BGMs, while Bio-Oss® (BO) showed the lowest.
- Bovine cortical bone (BC) and AW had significantly lower optical density than BO, 4BONE SBS, and human dentine.
- Dexabone® (DB) and KASIOS® TCP (KA) did not show statistically significant differences in radiopacity compared to other materials.
Conclusions:
- The radiopacity of all investigated BGMs was generally low.
- Most BGMs may not be sufficiently radiopaque for reliable radiographic detection when placed within mandibular cortical bone.
- Further research into enhancing BGM radiopacity is warranted for improved clinical monitoring.
