Hydroxyapatite used as bone replacement can lead to particle release in the implantation site. These particles interact with monocytes, which are the first immune cells to colonize the implant and an inflammatory site. Thanks to cryo-X-ray microanalysis, we can observe cells in a state close to the physiological one and we have access to diffusible ions. We paid particular attention to the potassium-to-sodium ratio, which is one of the best viability criteria. We used this method to study the interaction between three hydroxyapatite particles treated at three different temperatures (not treated, treated at 600 degrees C and 1180 degrees C), and monocytes. In the culture condition, the hydroxyapatite treated at 1180 degrees C underwent the least dissolution. We demonstrate that monocytes were altered by the three hydroxyapatite particles. The hydroxyapatite particules treated at 600 degrees C were found to be more toxic.
Copyright 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.