Implantation of sepiolite-collagen complexes in surgically created rat calvaria defects

The response of osseous tissue to the implantation of sepiolite-collagen complexes has been studied. Sepiolite, sepiolite-collagen complex and 0.5% glutaraldehyde-treated sepiolite-collagen complex were implanted in created circular defects in rat calvaria. The tissue reactions were analysed using light, transmission and scanning electron microscopies. The patterns of bone growth were radiographically analysed and the bone activity was indirectly quantified by using a point-count method. The reaction against the three implanted materials is characteristic of a foreign body reaction with abundant macrophages and giant cells. Implanted products have been detected in macrophages, which suggest the involvement of phagocytosis in the resorptive process. Bone grew at the implantation sites originating excrescences or sometimes a thin bridge at the defect margins. The studied materials, after implantation in contact with bone tissue, did not produce any toxic effect or necrosis, allowing bone activity.