Development of Porous Hydroxyapatite Scaffolds

ABSTRACT

Porous objects of hydroxyapatite (HA) were prepared by mixing sodium chloride as channeling agent with ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) as a binder and hydroxyapatite powder. After hot isostatic pressing (HIP) and dissolving the channeling agent, the bioceramic showed an interconnecting porosity with pore diameters in the range of 160–220 µm. The method can be used for any material that is insoluble in water. Such objects are promising for bone regeneration because the interconnecting porosity in implants provides a good environment for bone attachment and in-growth.

Keywords:

• Bone substitution
• Channeling agent
• Hydroxyapatite
• Porous
• Ultra high molecular weight polyethylene