Study of bioactive glass ceramic for use as bone biomaterial in vivo: investigation by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Histology

International audienceThe performance of the porous glass ceramic doped with 10% wt Zinc and 2% wt TiN (46S6-10Zn),in the restoration of critical diaphyseal bone defect, was evaluated by several physicochemical methods and histological studies. The critical defect in rabbits was created and then filled with 46S6-10Zn. At different periods after implementation, animals were sacrificed. Samples were harvested for exploration. The nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS-NMR) of 31P and 29Si illustrates the progressive degradation of 46S6-10Zn in favor to of the formation and the development of biological apatite. Therefore, after one month of implementation, MAS- NMR 29Si proves the presence of Q2 (25%), Q3 (73%) and Q4 (2%). However, after six months, the disappearance of all these species was revealed and characterized by the 46S6-10Zn dissolution. Besides, MAS- NMR 31P demonstrates the presence of Qc° (4%), QHA° (55%) and Qa° (41%) after one month. Nevertheless, six months later, we observe the presence of QHA° (80%) and Qa° (20%). Histological study demonstrates an intimate contact of 46S6-10Zn surrounding bone after one month of implantation. However, after four months, mature bone matrix became calcified and the implanted 46S6-10Zn began to be degraded. Moreover, nine months later, 46S6-10Zn was nearly resorbed and replaced by a calcified tissue in the periphery and an osteoid tissue in the middle of bone defect