Osseointegration of innovative customized implants in the tubular bone (Experimental study)

Abstract

An optimal condition for implant osseointegration is its mechanical stability. However, the process of osseointegration depends on numerous other conditions: mechanical stimulation, implant specific geometry, chemical composition of the surface and its architectonics, topology, and the way of surface relief formation. The aim of the investigation was to assess the capabilities of osseointegration of implants from stainless steel, fabricated by means of additive manufacturing technologies, for rabbit tibia replacement. Materials and methods. The experiment has been carried out on 6 chinchilla rabbits aged 6–8 months. Amputation of the shin was performed to all animals under general anesthesia, and implants, made with the help of additive manufacturing technologies, were screwed in. The stumps, abutments and implants were fixed during 6 weeks by Ilizarov apparatus. Investigations were performed using clinical, radiographic and histological methods. Results. The findings obtained testify to the ability of the applied screw construction to osseointegration into the tubular bone structure. Neogenesis of bone tissue on the implant surface after 12 weeks provides formation of a bone-implant block ensuring stable implant position in the tubular bone and capability of enduring mechanical load.