Mandibular reconstruction with a bioactive-coated cementless Ti6Al4V modular endoprosthesis in Macaca fascicularis

The titanium mandibular modular endoprosthesis fixed with polymethylmethacrylate cement in the medullary space of the mandible has been introduced in previous studies. However, the internal parts of these devices have been found to be prone to loosening and wound dehiscence. The current study introduces a newly designed bioactive-coated cementless modular mandibular endoprosthesis, which was used for reconstruction in Macaca fascicularis. The devices were coated with hydroxyapatite (HA) and hydroxyapatite/bioglass (HA/BG) and implanted in unilateral mandibular segmental defects in nine monkeys for 6 months. Biomechanical testing found the reconstructed mandible to have a mean stiffness value of 110.43 N/mm. Histologically, there were both fibrous capsule and woven bone around the device body, and histomorphology analysis showed 64.17% bone contact to device stem surface. The percentage bone volume calculated from micro-computed tomography analysis around the stem surface was found to be superior to that reported in previous studies of cemented mandibular endoprostheses. Intermodular connection screw loosening has also been resolved with the dovetail interconnection. In conclusion, the current bioactive-coated cementless mandibular endoprosthesis is feasible for use in mandibular segmental reconstruction. However, insufficient load-bearing capability and a high rate of intraoral wound dehiscence were found in the majority of the study animals. Further device modifications and improvements in the surgical technique need to be addressed in future studies.