A back-scattered electron microscopy (BSEM) study of the tight apposition between bone and hydroxyapatite coating

We performed a back-scattered electron microscopy analysis of the interface between newly formed bone and hydroxyapatite coating, in an experimental rabbit model. Twenty cylinders made of Ti6A14V and coated with hydroxyapatite at different crystallinity were implanted in the distal femural canal and retrieved at 4, 8, 26 an 34 weeks. Crystallinity of the coating varied from 90% to 60% and thickness varied between 50 and 100 μm. Osteocytes were detectable a few micrometers in proximity of the coating. They produced new bone which was so tightly apposed to the coating that high magnification BSEM did not resolve any discontinuity at the interface. This was not observed in uncoated implants. Degradation of the hydroxyapatite coating is not a simple hydrolytic process because newly formed bone is remodelled in areas were a tight apposition with hydroxyapatite is present. The coatint itself is likely to be attacked by the resorptive action of multinucleated giant cells and osteoclasts. In conclusion, response to coated samples is morphologically characterized by tight apposition with bone. The substitution of areas of the coating by newly formed bone is possible.