| The
physicochemical and biologic properties of the interface
zone between inorganic implants and host tissues constitute
a largely unexplored area of research. Most implant investigations
in humans have focused on clinical observation and on evaluations
of the biocompatibility of differents materials. A more
thorough analysis, however, demands investigation at the
inorganic-biotissue interface at a resolution on the molecular
level. Almost all interactions (except mechanical ones)
between an implant and its most originate from short-range
(approximate atomic dimensions) physicochemical forces.
A mapping of the interface at this level of resolution is
a prerequisite for a detailed understanding of the established
struture and dynamics when an inorganic material interacts
with a biologic system.
One
of the most important boundary conditions, witch relates
to the future or failure of implant procedures, is provided
the surface properties of the implant. The purpose of this
article is a brief identification and discussion of these
properties under the following headings: implant preparation;
the chemical and crystallographic composition of the implant
surfcae; and the chemical properties, bonding, and chemical
processes at the inorganic-biotissue interface. I will also
describe some of the experimental methods that can be use
to characterize the interface. |
