Analysis of the interface between bone and an active surface glass

Aim of the work is the evaluation of the interface developed by an active surface glass with sheep mandibular bone. Granules of 60-mesh size of a SIO2-CaO-Na20-MgO glass were implanted in bone defects surgically created in two sheep' jaws. After 2 and 4 months from the implant, the jaw sections were analyzed under SEM and X-ray microprobe. The analyses showed new bone formation along the wall of the cavity, and also at the center of the hole. The bone trabeculae try to surround the granules and develop a direct contact with the glass. The ion diffusion develops a Ca-P rich layer at the border of the granules and an incorporation of Silicon in bone and connective tissue adjacent to the glass.