Porous Ceramics as a Bone Substitute in the Medial Condyle of the Tibia: An Experimental Study in Sheep

Abstract

A new porous ceramic material was tested for possible use as a bone substitute in regions exposed mainly to compressive forces. The porous ceramics were implanted into the medial condyle of the tibia of four sheep and left in position for 3 months. The operated tibia was then removed and sections were made of the implants. The sections were studied by transmitted light microscopy, microradiography and scanning electron microscopy. There was no apparent loss of function of the operated leg and the implants were found to be bound to the adjacent bone by ingrowth of bony tissue, in some regions to a depth of 2–3 mm. It is concluded that the properties of the porous ceramic implants justify a clinical trial, provided that the results of long-term animal experiments are equally satisfactory.