Abstract
Difficulty in removing implants used in trauma patients can be a complication, and increased boneβimplant adhesion likely is a major contributing factor. In vitro studies have shown that surface morphology of implant materials has the ability to influence cellular responses, with polished surfaces decreasing the potential for mineralization. This study examined the effect of polishing commercially pure titanium (cpTi) and the titanium alloy TAN on the removal torque and percentage boneβimplant contact in cortical and cancellous bone of sheep. Polishing had a significant effect on both removal torque and percentage boneβimplant contact, with the polished implants demonstrating a lower removal torque in both cortical and cancellous bone. Polished cpTi and stainless steel were similar in terms of surface roughness and removal torque. However, polished TAN, which was not as smooth as polished cpTi, did not show the same low level for reducing removal torque. Improved polishing of TAN should reduce the removal torque further. The results of the study show that polishing is promising in improving the ease of implant removal after fracture fixation and repair. Β© 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1377β1383, 2008