Hydroxyapatite, a mineral similar to human bone composition, is used for medical implants and bone voids. It can be used to coat titanium and stainless steel implants and encourage bone growth. It is also marketed as a supplement, but its safety is inadequately tested. It can cause health problems if molecules aggregate and form crystals.
Hydroxyapatite is a natural mineral whose composition is similar to the mineral element in human bones. The enamel on your teeth is largely composed of some form of this mineral. In nature, hydroxyapatite can have brown, yellow or green coloration. In its powdered form, it is typically white.
This mineral is often used for medical implants. It is bioactive, which means it can integrate into bone structures and support growth without breaking down or dissolving in the human body. Initially, the mineral was mainly used for dental implants. While it is still used for this purpose today, it is also used for other purposes.
Titanium and stainless steel implants are often covered with hydroxyapatite coatings. Plasma spraying is generally the method used to accomplish this task. Implants must be coated to fool the body; if this were not done, the body would identify an implant as a foreign object and work to isolate it instead of incorporating it.
Hydroxyapatite can also be used in cases where bone voids or defects are present. This process involves placing powders, blocks or beads of the mineral into or onto the affected areas of the bone. Because it is bioactive, it encourages bone to grow and correct the problem. This process can be an alternative to bone grafts. Usually shorter healing times are obtained than they would be if hydroxyapatite were not used.
The medical use of hydroxyapatite is believed to be due to the work of Professor Per-Ingvar Branemark. In 1952 he conducted an experiment involving the use of a titanium implant in rabbit bone. When the professor went to remove the implant, he reportedly found that the implant had become so completely integrated with the bone that it could not be removed. This has sparked interest in using it for human medical purposes.
A product known as microcrystalline hydroxyapatite (MH) is sometimes marketed to consumers as a bone-building supplement. It is often advertised as having superior absorption to calcium. There are studies that have shown positive results. Despite this fact, consumers are generally advised to avoid supplements because HD is generally considered to be inadequately tested.
Hydroxyapatite can also cause health problems. Sometimes the molecules aggregate, forming crystals. These can form in or around the joints and cause swelling of the joints, tendons or ligaments. Treatment for this condition may include applying a cold compress, taking inflammation medications, and cortisone injections.
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