The effect of bone compaction on early fixation of porous-coated implants

The effect of a bone compaction technique versus conventional drilling on t he early fixation of porous-coated implants was examined in a canine model. Compaction dilation resulted in a significant increase in implant fixation stiffness (P <.01) and ultimate fixation strength (P <.01) at 0 and 3 week s. Fixation stiffness remained significantly increased at 6 weeks (P <.01); however, the ultimate fixation strength was not statistically significant between the 2 techniques (P >.05). There was no significant difference in e ither fixation value at 9 weeks (P >.05). Histological examination of the b one-implant interface demonstrated an increase in the density of cancellous bone immediately adjacent to the implants placed in the compaction dilated holes. The results of this study suggest that the compaction method of hos t bone preparation may optimize the initial stability of the implant interf ace of porous-coated prostheses.