Synthetic hydroxyapatite for bone-healing applications

This chapter reviews and discusses the clinical use of hydroxyapatite-containing implants, including their use as coatings and as bone graft substitutes (BGSs) in orthopedic, dental, and ophthalmic surgery. A strong focus is given to highlighting the low number of high-quality, Level I or II clinical trials carried out on these implants, despite the extensive period of use of many of these and also the vast range of medical devices used, both historically and currently. Additionally, the large number of variables in the physical and chemical properties of different hydroxyapatite coatings and BGSs need more consideration when understanding the clinical behavior of these implants.