A coralline hydroxyapatite bone graft substitute. Preliminary report.

Experimental histologic and biomechanical studies were performed in 52 dogs by use of a bone substitute composed of hydroxyapatite converted from sea coral calcite. The results demonstrate some potentially useful practical applications. The material was totally incorporated in bone. Although initially too weak to tolerate physiologic stresses, once incorporated it becomes almost as strong as the native bone. Clinical experience with internal fixation of fractures with hydroxyapatite in 18 patients is encouraging.