An experimental in vivo analysis of the resorption to ultrasound activated pins (Sonic weld®) and standard biodegradable screws (ResorbX®) in sheep

We compared the healing and reaction in the mandibles of I I sheep of a conventional bioresorbable screw osteosynthesis with the newly developed ultrasound-activated pin osteosynthesis. The thermal stress caused by insertion of the ultrasound-aided pins leads to no cellular reaction around the pin. There is neither clinical nor histological evidence of any initial inflammation that could have been induced by the insertion. Adequate attachment of fibrous tissue to the pin head and the absence of any inflammation are important preconditions for the introduction of this new method of osteosynthesis into clinical practice. Further advantageous characteristics are easy intraoperative handling and a reduction in operating time, because cutting the thread is not required. There must be sufficient interlinkage of the polymer and the trabecular structures to ensure stability. (C) 2007 The British Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.