The influence of three different apical implant designs at stability and osseointegration process: experimental study in rabbits

Objectives: The aim of this study was to perform a histomorphometric and biomechanical comparison of three implants with different designs of the apical area to promote a better bone initial stability and its correlation with the osseointegration.

Material and methods: Fifty-four tapered implants with same length, diameter and surface properties but with three different apical configurations (Group I: MK4: Group II: C1 and Group III: MK7) were inserted in the tibia of rabbits. Implant stability and bone formation were evaluated by resonance frequency analysis measured at 0, 6, 8 and 12 weeks and by histomorphometric analysis performed at 6, 8 and 12 weeks.

Results: Statistical test to compare the stability through the implant stability quotient in the four times showed few differences between the groups and time periods proposed, with significance set at P < 0.05. In the bone-implant contact, by comparing the groups in the three times proposed, it was possible concluded that there is a similar behavior among the three implant design (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: With the limitations of this animal study, it can be concluded that the design of the apical area influences the implant stability and the bone-to-implant contact.