Biocompatibility correlation of polymeric materials using human osteosarcoma cells

Metal implants are the preferred materials to generate articular prostheses , plates, or bone pegs in orthopedic surgery, Although titanium and titaniu m alloys show a relatively good biocompatibility, clinical experience revea led that coating of the metallic implant surface may increase the biocompat ibility. In a search for optimum bone implant surfaces, we determined polar ity and contact angle parameters of a variety of polymers and substances an d correlated the findings in a biocompatibility assay using an in vitro bon e cell model. We report that an optimum adherence of SAOS-2 cells to such s urfaces and a good vitality for polymers are characterized by water-based c ontact angles of 80 degrees and 20 degrees for advancing and receding probe s, respectively.