Researchers from Linköping University in Sweden have developed a coating for titanium implants that enables the implants to adhere to the bone better and faster, according to an article published online in Bone (February 10, 2012).
The coating, developed at Linköping University in Sweden, consists of a nanometer-thin layer of protein that attaches to the metal surface. Attached to the protein is a bisphosphonate drug typically used to treat osteoporosis. Several animal studies have shown that this method allows the bone surrounding the implant to rapidly become denser and stronger. The method has now been tested on humans.
Sixteen patients received two implants each: one normal and a similar surface-treated implant. Neither the patient nor the dental surgeon knew which was which. After six months the researchers found that for 15 of the 16 patients, the treated screw was much better established. No complications were observed.
"It is the first time ever anyone has succeeded in reinforcing the bone around an implant with localised medication," said Per Aspenberg, professor of orthopedics, who devised the method of using bisphosphonates in this way.
