This study is to qualitatively evaluate a locally produced hydroxyapatite (HA), made by AMREC-SIRIM in an experimental animal bone defect using New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits. HA cylindrical blocks measuring 2.5 mm (D) x 1.0 mm (H) were implanted in the rabbits' left tibia. The tibias were harvested within one to three weeks post-implantation. The implantion site was cut into thin undecalcified sections of about 30 microm to 60 microm and stained with Toluidine Blue and Goldner's Masson Trichrome. Microscopic examinations using standard light microscopy of these slides were performed.
Hydroxyapatite is a calcium phosphate bioceramic that has been shown by many authors to be biocompatible with bioactive properties. It is widely accepted as the best synthetic material available for surgical use as a bone graft substitute. HA granules produced by AMREC-SIRIM from local materials underwent 5 types of sterilisation techniques with different ageing periods. Samples were tested for chemical and phase composition and microbial contamination before and after being sterilised. From the microbiological tests done, none of the unsterilised positive control yielded a positive culture. Results from X-Ray diffraction studies found that all the sterilisation techniques did not chemically degrade or structurally change the HA granules significantly.