Bone response to laser-induced micro- and nano-size titanium surface features

This study explored whether laser-induced, site-specific implant surface modifications with micro- and nano-scale topography were able to promote bone formation. The aim was to evaluate the biomechanical and histological response to partly laser-modified titanium implants in comparison with machined implants. After an early 8-week healing period in rabbit tibia and femur, a 250% increase in removal torque was demonstrated for the partly laser-modified surface. Further, different fracture mechanisms were demonstrated for the two surfaces. Histologically, significantly more bone was found in direct contact with the laser-modified surface for the implants in the tibia sites, and a similar amount of bone tissue was observed in contact with the implant in the femoral sites. In conclusion, an improved bone-implant interface anchorage was promoted by an increase in micro- and nano-scale implant surface topography and surface oxide induced by topological laser treatment.From the Clinical EditorNanosized grooves in titanium implants markedly improve bone-implant anchorage by increasing the amount of bone formed in direct contact with the metal prosthesis.

Graphical AbstractIn the present study it was explored if laser-induced, site-specific implant surface modifications with micro- and nano-scale topography could promote bone formation. The aim was to evaluate the biomechanical and histological response to partly laser-modified titanium implants Figure 1 compared to machined implants. After an early 8-week healing period in rabbit tibia and femur, a 250 % increase in the removal torque was demonstrated for the partly laser-modified surface. Further, different fracture mechanisms were demonstrated for the two surfaces Figure 2. Histologically, significantly more bone was found in direct contact with the laser-modified surface for the implants in the tibia sites while similar amount of bone tissue was observed in contact with the implant in the femoral sites. In conclusion, an improved bone-implant interface anchorage was promoted by an increased micro- and nanoscale implant surface topography and surface oxide induced by topological laser treatment.Figure optionsDownload high-quality image (407 K)Download as PowerPoint slideFigure optionsDownload high-quality image (500 K)Download as PowerPoint slide