The effect of heat on bone regeneration: an experimental study in the rabbit using the bone growth chamber.

A dividable titanium implant that, after insertion in the tibial metaphysis of an experimental animal, permits a numerical estimation of ingrowing bone was used to evaluate the effects of a defined temperature rise on bone regeneration. Heating the test implants to 47 degrees C or 50 degrees C for 1 minute caused significantly reduced bone formation in the implants, while no significant effects were observed after heating to 44 degrees C for 1 minute. The results reflect the importance of controlling the heat produced during surgery to avoid impaired bone regeneration.