Resorption of composite polymer-hydroxyapatite membranes: a time-course study in rabbit.

The histological findings in rabbit, concerning the resorption of a new composite hydroxyapatite-polymer membrane used in guided tissue regeneration are reported. The polymer appeared to be completely resorbed in about 4-6 months, while the inorganic component, hydroxyapatite, appeared to begin to resorb after the tenth month. The integrity of the membrane appeared to be unchanged after a 10-month period. No inflammatory cell infiltrate was present. This new type of membrane appeared to be relatively well tolerated by the host, had no significant adverse soft and hard tissue reaction, appeared to be easy to handle and had good space-maintaining capabilities. More research is certainly needed before clinical use in man.