In vitro and in vivo evaluation of thin calcium phosphate coatings

Abstract

This chapter starts with general considerations on wound healing; the main cells and their structures and functions; and methods of in vitro and in vivo evaluation. Implants with thin calcium phosphate (CaP) coatings can enhance or inhibit wound healing mechanisms on various levels of gene expression and protein production. Therefore, some techniques to elucidate the material and tissue interactions are mentioned. Bone development, the various types of bone, and bone fracture healing are presented. Thin CaP coatings of implant material can be investigated in in vitro test systems using primary cells or cell lines in culture. More reliable results can be expected from in vivo investigations with animal models. Important results of such investigations are presented. The prediction of the clinical performance of thin CaP coatings on the basis of in vitro and in vivo models is limited. Therefore, retrieval studies of surgically explanted or postmortem uncovered implants should be obligatory. © 2009 Springer-Verlag New York.