Evaluation of biointegration of functionally modified titanium constructions for mandibular condylar process osteosynthesis

Objectives. To evaluate the biointegration properties of functionally modified titanium constructions for osteosynthesis of the mandibular condylar process by analysing cell adhesion and proliferation using scanning electron microscopy. Materials and methods. Twenty-four sexually mature chinchilla rabbits (age 8 months, body weight 2.5±0.25 kg) were randomly assigned to four groups (n=6) based on the surface characteristics of titanium constructs. Samples featured either sandblasted or polished surfaces, with or without titanium dioxide coating applied by anodic oxidation. Surface modification included silicon carbide abrasion or mechanical polishing. Implants were surgically placed into a standardized rectangular bone cavity in the mandibular condylar region. After 30 days, constructs were explanted and assessed for cell adhesion and proliferation using scanning electron microscopy. Results. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that surface topography and titanium dioxide modification critically influence cellular adhesion and morphological integrity. The highest degree of membrane preservation and cellular attachment was observed on sandblasted surfaces with TiO2-coating. Polished uncoated samples exhibited pronounced cellular deformation and contraction-related features. TiO2-coating facilitated formation of contact structures and enhanced proliferative behaviour. Conclusion. Surface modification of titanium via sandblasting followed by anodic oxidation to form a TiO2 layer significantly enhances the biointegration properties of implants by promoting robust cell adhesion, preserving morpho-functional integrity, and improving osteoconductive potential.