In vivo evaluation of modified titanium implant surfaces produced using a hybrid plasma spraying processing

In this study, the biological responses to surface-modified titanium (Ti) was investigated using a dog model. Titanium plasma spraying and ion implantation of amino (NH2+) groups were used as means of modifying Ti surfaces. Characterization of the modified Ti surfaces was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and scanning Auger electron spectroscopy. In vivo evaluations were performed using fluorescence microscope, scanning electron microscope and energy disperse spectroscopy. It was observed in this study that ion-implanted porous-graded titanium coatings had a thick surface oxide layer, containing a small amount of nitride. In vivo study indicates direct bone contact between surface-modified Ti implants and osseous tissues. In addition, osseous tissues were observed to grow into the pores inside the coatings, thereby allowing the formation of a gradual calcium phosphate interface layer. It was concluded from this study that ion implantation of Ti surfaces with amino groups, induced higher concentration of calcium and phosphorus precipitation and more mineralization as compared to non-ion-implanted Ti surfaces.