Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate histological and radiological osseointegration characteristics of implanted di-/tri-calciumphosphate in patients bone substitute material in opening-wedge osteotomies patients. Up to now the hypothesis of bioresorption and replacement with vital bone bases on numerous animal studies showing complete remodelling within 12–26 weeks. Histological patient studies hardly exist. In this study 13 patient biopsies were collected 16 months after tibial osteotomy. Unlike animal studies the results showed mainly incorporated avital cement residues (38%) as well as new bone formation (61%). Radiological scoring confirmed increasing signs of osseointegration and an incomplete resorption. In conclusion degradation and replacement of di-/tri-calciumphosphate seems to be less accelerated in patients than prior animal studies indicated. Nevertheless, it shows excellent biocompatibility, good osteoconductive characteristics and may represents a useful alternative to autogenous graft.