In Vivo Evaluation of Microarc Oxidation-Treated Titanium Implant

Objectives: to investigate soft tissue and bone tissue reaction to titanium implants treated by modified micro arc oxidation (MAO) technique, and analyze the surface components change of inserted implants to discuss the osseointegration mechanisms for MAO implants. Methods: MAO titanium implants were installed subcutaneously on rabbits. Tissue biocompatibility was evaluated by HE tissue sections. MAO titanium implants designed for endosseous installation were inserted in Beagles' femurs. Bone tissue around implants was observed histologically, and surfaces of retrieved implants were observed and tested by SEM and EDX. All procedures were performed under the control of untreated pure titanium implants. Results: Thin uniform fibrous envelope could be found without apparent inflammation cells infiltration around the subcutaneously imbedded MAO implants, which was almost same as control group. Fast osteoid deposition comprising high content of Calcium, Phosphor, Carbon and Nitrogen elements were found on the retrieved MAO implant surfaces, while comparatively less amount of Carbon and Nitrogen elements were found on the retrieved implants of control group. Matured bone tissue comprised bone trabeculae and Haversian canals appeared in eight weeks, while twelve weeks needed to form matured bone tissue in control group. Conclusion: MAO titanium materials showed good biocompatibility and calcium phosphate inducement capability in vivo and could accelerate bone tissue growth and shorten the healing time.