Hydroxyapatite-collagen-hyaluronic acid composite

The new composite biomaterial made from hydroxyapatite and collagen conjuga ted with hyaluronic acid has been studied. The structure evaluation of the composite showed more dense arrangement due to the formation of collagen-hy aluronic acid conjugate, and particles of inorganic component are closely a nchored in the structure. Mechanical properties and model swelling of this composite are compared with properties of hydroxyapatite-collagen composite of similar material without hyaluronic acid. Higher cohesivity of the new biomaterial can give new possibilities for application as bone implant mate rial. The test of contact cytotoxicity showed a very good biocompatibility of the biomaterial. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.