Biocompatibility testing of NiTi screws using immunohistochemistry on sections containing metallic implants

NiTi is one of the most innovative concepts to have appeared in the field of metallic biomaterials in recent years but its biocompatibility remains controversial. We evaluated the biocompatibility of Nitinol screws using immunohistochemistry to observe the distribution of bone proteins during bone remodeling process around NiTi implant. Results were compared with screws made of Vitallium, c.p. titanium, Duplex austenitic-ferritic stainless steel (SAF), and Stainless Steel 316L. Screws were implanted in rabbit tibia for 3, 6, and 12 weeks. Embedding was performed in the hard resin Technovit, and for the immunohistochemical procedure undecalcified sections with bone-anchored implants could thus be used. The immunostaining method developed seemed to be a reliable technique to stain proteins in undecalcified sections. Biocompatibility results of the NiTi screws compared with the other screws showed a slower osteogenesis process characterized by no close contact between implant and bone, disorganized migration of osteoblasts around the implant, and a lower activity of osteonectin synthesis.