An experimental in vivo analysis of the resorption to ultrasound activated pins (Sonic weld) and standard biodegradable screws (ResorbX) in sheep

Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2007 Sep;45(6):447-50. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2006.12.002. Epub 2007 Jan 10.

Abstract

We compared the healing and reaction in the mandibles of 11 sheep of a conventional bioresorbable screw osteosynthesis with the newly developed ultrasound-activated pin osteosynthesis. The thermal stress caused by insertion of the ultrasound-aided pins leads to no cellular reaction around the pin. There is neither clinical nor histological evidence of any initial inflammation that could have been induced by the insertion. Adequate attachment of fibrous tissue to the pin head and the absence of any inflammation are important preconditions for the introduction of this new method of osteosynthesis into clinical practice. Further advantageous characteristics are easy intraoperative handling and a reduction in operating time, because cutting the thread is not required. There must be sufficient interlinkage of the polymer and the trabecular structures to ensure stability.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Absorbable Implants*
  • Animals
  • Bone Nails*
  • Bone Plates
  • Bone Screws*
  • Dental Implantation, Endosseous / methods*
  • Fracture Fixation, Internal / instrumentation*
  • Fractures, Bone / surgery
  • Hot Temperature
  • Mandible / surgery
  • Polyesters
  • Sheep, Domestic
  • Ultrasonics*
  • Welding

Substances

  • Polyesters
  • poly(lactide)