Impact of Laser-Etched Titanium Plates on Osteoblast Attachment and Proliferation

Titanium plates are widely used in orthopedic and maxillofacial surgery due to their excellent biocompatibility and mechanical properties. Surface modifications, such as laser etching, aim to enhance osteoblast attachment and proliferation, which are critical for successful osseointegration. This study investigates the impact of laser-etched titanium plates on osteoblast attachment and proliferation compared to untreated plates.

Laser etching was performed on commercially pure titanium plates using a high-precision laser system to create micro- and nanoscale surface patterns. Untreated titanium plates served as the control group. Human osteoblast-like cells (MG-63) were cultured on both surfaces. Cell attachment was evaluated after four hours using fluorescence microscopy, while proliferation was assessed at 24, 48, and 72 hours using an MTT assay. Statistical analysis was performed using a t-test, with P < 0.05 considered significant.

Laser-etched titanium plates exhibited significantly higher osteoblast attachment, with 75% more cells adhering to the modified surface compared to controls (P < 0.05). Proliferation rates were also significantly increased on laser-etched plates at 24 hours (120% ± 10%), 48 hours (145% ± 12%), and 72 hours (180% ± 15%) compared to untreated plates. The enhanced cellular responses were attributed to the improved surface roughness and topography created by laser etching.

Laser-etched titanium plates significantly enhance osteoblast attachment and proliferation compared to untreated plates, making them a promising candidate for improving osseointegration in clinical applications. Future studies are warranted to explore in vivo outcomes and long-term biocompatibility.