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Osteoconductivity of thermal-sprayed silver-containing hydroxyapatite coating in the rat tibia
Y Yonekura1, H Miyamoto, T Shimazaki
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Saga University, 5-1-1 Nabeshima, Saga 849-8501, Japan. yoneyuta@acc.saga-u.ac.jp
The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. British Volume
|April 23, 2011
Summary
Silver-hydroxyapatite coatings show promise for bone implants. Low-dose silver (3%Ag-HA) supports bone healing and has low toxicity, unlike high-dose (50%Ag-HA) which inhibits bone formation.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings enhance implant osseointegration.
- Silver (Ag) incorporation into HA coatings may offer antimicrobial benefits.
- The impact of silver concentration on osteoconductivity requires investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the osteoconductivity of silver-hydroxyapatite (Ag-HA) coatings on titanium (Ti) implants.
- To assess the dose-dependent effect of silver on bone formation and implant contact.
- To determine the suitability of Ag-HA coatings for joint replacement applications, considering bacterial infection.
Main Methods:
- Development of Ag-HA coatings using thermal spraying technology.
- In vivo evaluation of Ti, HA, 3%Ag-HA, and 50%Ag-HA coated implants in rat tibiae models.
- Quantification of bone formation and bone contact indices around implants at 12 weeks.
Main Results:
- The 3%Ag-HA coating demonstrated osteoconductivity comparable to HA coating, with no significant difference in bone formation or contact indices.
- The 50%Ag-HA coating significantly inhibited bone formation compared to HA and 3%Ag-HA coatings.
- Bone formation affinity indices were 97.3% (Ti), 84.9% (HA), 81.0% (3%Ag-HA), and 40.5% (50%Ag-HA).
- Bone contact indices were 18.8% (Ti), 83.7% (HA), 77.2% (3%Ag-HA), and 40.5% (50%Ag-HA).
Conclusions:
- The 3%Ag-HA coating exhibits low toxicity and good osteoconductivity, making it a viable option for orthopedic implants.
- Silver toxicity negatively impacts osteoconductivity in a dose-dependent manner, with higher concentrations being detrimental.
- Ag-HA coatings hold potential for enhancing implant performance in joint replacement by balancing osseointegration and infection control.
