Biomaterials in orthopaedic surgery: effects of different hydroxyapatites and demineralized bone matrix on proliferation rate and bone matrix synthesis by human osteoblasts

The effects of different biomaterials, used in orthopaedic surgery for bone substitution and/or prosthesis coating to improve fixation and durability of prosthetic implants, have been studied in vitro on cell growth and bone matrix synthesis by human osteoblasts. The materials were a bovine collagen matrix (Osteovit, B. Braun Melsungen AG, Melsungen, Germany) and two hydroxyapatite (Ceros 80, Robert Mathys Co, Instrumentenfabrik Bettlach, Germany and Ostilit, Howmedica International, Staines House, UK). Cell proliferation and bone matrix synthesis were assessed by incorporation of [3H]thymidine and [3H]proline, respectively. Cell viability in the presence of the materials was also morphologically controlled using phase-contrast microscopy. Exposure to Osteovit caused increased proliferation of human osteoblasts, whereas both Ostilit and Ceros 80 induced a decreased cell growth. Osteoblast bone matrix synthesis was increased by all the materials tested.