Mechanism of bone-like formation on a bioactive implant in vivo

The physical and chemical nature of the remodelled interface between the porous A3 glass–ceramic, composed of (wt%): SiO2=54.5; CaO=15.0; Na2O=12.0; MgO=8.5; P2O5=6.0 K2O=4.0, and the surrounding bone was studied after implantation into rat tibias. The interfaces which developed new bone layer in direct contact with the implants were examined by analytical scanning and transmission electron microscopy after implantation for 6, 8 and 12 weeks. Degradation processes of the implants also encouraged osseous tissue ingrowths into the pores of the material, changing drastically the macro- and microstructure of the implants. The ionic exchange initiated at the implant interface with the physiological environment was essential in the integration process of the implant, through a dissolution–precipitation–transformation mechanism. The interfaces developed non-toxic biological and chemical activities and remained reactive over the 12-week implantation period. These findings were significant as indicative of morphological and chemical integration of the A3 glass–ceramic into the structure of living bone tissue. A3 glass–ceramic could be suitable for the repair or replacement of living bone.