The use of calcium phosphates, their biological properties

Bone graft substitute success depends on the formation of healing bone tissue that will bring about the incorporation of the implant, in a sequence of discrete phases. Each of these phases may be influenced by the nature of the implant used. The biological, biochemical, and physicochemical parameters involved may be measured, quantified, and checked. All those involved in the manufacture or the use of these substitutes must thoroughly understand these aspects in order to be able to control them. Tricalcium phosphate, Hydroxyapatite and the biphasic compounds are currently the most widely used materials. TCP, whether used by itself, or as one of the constituents of the biphasic calcium phosphates, will eventually disappear, leaving the bone graft substitute to be gradually osseointegrated. This osseointegration will ensure the biocompatibility of the implant, since resorption occurs without the interposition of a fibrous tissue layer.