Rabbits as Animal Models in Contemporary Implant Biomaterial Research

Abstract

Development of an optimal interface between bone and orthopedic or dental implants has taken place for many years. In order to determine whether a newly developed implant material conforms to the requirements of biocompatibility, mechanical stability and safety, it must undergo rigorous testing both in vitro and in vivo. Results from in vitro studies can be difficult to extrapolate to the in vivo situation. For this reason the use of animal models is often an essential step in the testing of orthopedic and dental implants prior to clinical use in humans. This review discusses the reasons, the importance, and the research carried out in rabbits in our quest to develop a dental implant ideally suited for human bone.