Calcium Phosphate-Based Bone Substitutes

Abstract

Background:

The replacement of bone by means of foreign materials was already carried out in prehistoric times. Nowadays autogenous bone grafting is designated as the “golden standard” to fill large osseous defects which result from traumas, tumors, or birth defects. However, its disadvantages such as limited supply of autogenous bone and donor site morbidity have favored the use of bone substitutes. As these materials are characterized by their unlimited availability without bearing the risk of disease transmission, research on improving bone tissue healing by using bone substitutes of synthetic or biological origin is a field of major interest.

Focus of Interest:

Bone substitutes used clinically in orthopedics, periodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery as well as in plastic, trauma, and reconstructive surgery comprise a wide variety of materials and have been the focus of interest for the last 80 years. The present review has focused on the frequently used calcium phosphate-based bone substitutes revealing either resorbable or nonresorbable properties. Their excellent biocompatibility due to their close mimicking of the inorganic phase of the natural bone mineral has led to their widespread use in bone reconstructive surgery.

Examination Tools:

Physicochemical properties of the materials have been shown by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, whereas bioreactivity has been investigated by means of comparative histological evaluations and the use of various animal models. Transmission electron microscopy has been suitable for studying cell-mediated degradation at the cellular level. The results are discussed with special regard to the origin, composition, and general characteristics of inorganic bone substitutes.