COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF CYTOTOXICITY AND BIOCOMPATIBILITY OF MODIFIED TITANIUM IMPLANT SURFACES ON HUMAN FIBROBLAST CULTURES IN VITRO
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.11603/2311-9624.2025.4.15966Keywords:
osteosynthesis; mandibular condylar process; Ti-6Al-4V alloy; titanium dioxide; cytotoxicity; fibroblasts; MTT-test, biocompatibility.Abstract
The efficacy of osteosynthesis of the mandibular condylar process is critically dependent upon the biocompatibility of the implant surface with the surrounding soft tissues. Identifying the optimal titanium surface modification to prevent inflammatory complications remains a priority in contemporary surgery. The aim of the study – to conduct a comparative evaluation of the cytotoxicity and biocompatibility of Ti-6Al-4V alloy samples with various surface modifications on human dermal fibroblasts in vitro, to provide a rationale for selecting implant designs for osteosynthesis of the mandibular condylar process. Materials and Methods. The study analyzed 20 titanium alloy discs divided into four groups based on surface treatment: polished versus sandblasted, and with versus without titanium dioxide (TiO2) coating. Primary human dermal fibroblasts served as the biological model. Cell viability was assessed using the MTT assay after 72 hours of cultivation, and cell morphology was analyzed via phase-contrast microscopy. Statistical analysis was performed using Student’s t-test, p<0.05. Results. The study revealed that none of the tested surface types exhibited significant cytotoxicity; cell viability across all groups exceeded 94% compared to controls. The highest biocompatibility rates were observed in polished samples without coating – 99.7±0.5% and those with TiO2 coating – 98.2±1.2%. However, the sandblasted groups exhibited a phenomenon of titanium microparticle release (detachment) into the culture medium, representing a potential risk factor for the development of aseptic inflammation in soft tissues. Conclusions. For osteosynthesis of the mandibular condylar process, where the interface between the implant and mobile soft tissues (fascia, joint capsule) is critical, priority should be given to polished implants (either uncoated or TiO2-coated). These surfaces demonstrate maximum bioinertness and preclude the emission of microparticles.
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