Osteokonduktivitet

Osteokonduktivitet refers to the ability of a material to serve as a scaffold or surface upon which new bone can grow. It is a crucial property for biomaterials used in bone regeneration and tissue engineering. When an osteoconductive material is placed in a bone defect or at a site intended for bone repair, cells from the surrounding bone, such as osteoblasts and osteoprogenitor cells, can migrate onto and proliferate along its surface. This process facilitates the formation of new bone matrix, which eventually fills the defect and integrates with the host bone. Essentially, osteoconductive materials provide a supportive framework that guides and promotes the natural bone healing process.

The porous structure and surface chemistry of a material are key factors influencing its osteoconductivity. A suitable pore size and interconnected porosity allow for cell infiltration, vascularization, and nutrient transport. Surface features, such as the presence of specific chemical groups or the ability to release ions that stimulate bone formation, also play a significant role. Examples of naturally osteoconductive materials include demineralized bone matrix, collagen, and certain ceramics like hydroxyapatite. Synthetic materials are often designed to mimic these properties to enhance their effectiveness in promoting bone regeneration. Osteoconductivity is distinct from osteoinductivity, which refers to a material's ability to actively induce undifferentiated cells to differentiate into bone-forming cells.