Formation of nano hydroxyapatite – a straightforward way to bioactivate bone implant surfaces

Bioactivity has been a field of biomaterials research for more than 25 years. However, clinical application of bioactive implants is progressing rather slowly and is still limited to a few types of bone implants. The increased understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying bioactivity has opened up new attractive opportunities to render conventional implant materials such as metals, ceramics and even polymers bioactive. In particular, biomimetic nano hydroxyapatite coatings and in-situ mineralising surfaces induced by incorporation of mineralisation seeds are applicable to a wide variety of implant types and materials. They have the potential to set new standards for the improved performance of orthopaedic implants whilst complying with the economic constraints on healthcare.