R. Alfotawi, A. Elghannam
Dental faculty, King Saud University,
Saudi Arabia
Keywords: silica carbide, integration, bioglass, bone augmentation, implants, bone defect, osteointegration
Summary:
Background: The significant clinical demand for bone augmentation and the reported complications with the current biomaterials make it an essential area of research. The study uses a rat model to explore the role of dense bioactive Silicon Carbide (SiC) Ceramic and evaluates its integration into long bone. Materials and Methods: SiC discs were made with 40 μm discs with a dimension of 5×3×5 mm and were fabricated by exposing SiC particles to 15% NaOH for 15 min before they were mixed with the smaller SiC particles. After that, they were heated to 650°C for five hours. The biocompatibility and estrogenicity of the SiC-compacted disc were then evaluated in vitro. After being cultured on the surface of SiC compact discs, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) were assessed for cell viability and differentiation using semi-quantitative RT-PCR, quantitative Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) expression, and scanning electron microscopy SEM. The material was then tested in vivo on 18 rats. After 12 weeks, the transplanted tissues were removed and subjected to mechanical testing, Un-decalcified histologic analysis, including immunohistochemistry for bone sialoprotein and S100, and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). Results: Osteogenic potential and SiC biocompatibility were noted. More radio-opacity indistinguishable from the cortical native bone was observed on cone-beam computed tomography for the samples; no radiolucent space was visible, indicating integration with bone. Compared to the control group, the grafted long bone group 1 exhibited a statistically significant greater modulus of elasticity and a high mechanical flexural strength (P<0.001). Histologically, SiC integration was observed; mixed lamellar and woven bone is shown in the native bone, and osteoblastic cells were present at the edges of SiC. This was verified by positive bone sialoprotein staining at the interface area. Moreover, positive staining at the interface area for the S100 antibody indicates the innervation of the newly formed bone. Conclusion: The tested Compact Silicon carbide Bio glass constructs can potentially Osseo integrate into the native bone, making them suitable for bone augmentation.