Enhanced Bone Orthopedic Dental Implants: Integrating Reduced Graphene Oxide with Chitosan and Hydroxyapatite

This study aimed to develop and evaluate chitosan (CH) and hydroxyapatite (HA)-based bone orthopedic implants (BOIs) incorporated with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) for wound healing and dental bone tissue regeneration applications. CH-HA–rGO composites were synthesized and characterized to assess their physicochemical, morphological, thermal, mechanical and bioactivity properties. Compressive strength and elongation at break were measured to evaluate mechanical properties. The morphology of the BOI was examined to confirm the pore structure. Bioactivity was assessed via calcium/phosphorus (Ca/P) content analysis, while biodegradation and biocompatibility were tested using MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assays on MG63 osteoblast cells. Fish waste was utilized in the preparation of BOI to explore its potential as a sustainable resource. The CH–HA–rGO BOI demonstrated excellent mechanical properties, including a compressive strength of 48.34 ± 0.74 MPa and an elongation at a break of 41.82 ± 0.24%. The implant displayed a well-developed pore structure and enhanced bioactivity with a high Ca/P content. Biocompatibility studies revealed significant cell viability of MG63 cells on the BOI, confirming its potential for biological applications. The CH–HA–rGO BOI showed superior mechanical strength, biocompatibility and bone mineralization potential, indicating its suitability for implant applications in large animals. The innovative use of fish waste in BOI preparation further highlights its sustainability and potential for tissue regeneration studies.