The importance of the surface of implants to successful outcomes
8th June 2026, 19:00 to 20:00 BST
Overview
Metal remains the material of choice for internal fracture fixation due to its high strength, ductility for surgical contouring, and long‑established bio‑passivity. Its clinical success over decades represents one of the greatest advances in orthopaedic medicine. However, expanding use—particularly in paediatric patients and across diverse anatomical sites—has introduced more demanding mechanical and biological requirements. Research focuses on understanding cell ‑ and tissue ‑ specific responses to metal implants in vitro and in vivo. This webinar highlights research from the author’s laboratory, with particular emphasis on surface microtopographical strategies to promote favourable tissue interactions and reduce morbidity associated with implant removal.
Aims
The overall aim of this webinar is to bring the audience into an understanding of the implant tissue interface at a simple level for their daily work.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this webinar, attendees should be able to:
- Explain why metal remains the material of choice for internal fracture fixation, including its mechanical advantages and long‑term biocompatibility.
- Describe the clinical problem of implant removal–related morbidity, particularly excessive bone on‑ and in‑growth, and its relevance in paediatric and trauma populations.
- Differentiate soft‑tissue and bone responses to metallic implant surfaces at the cellular and tissue level.
- Understand how implant surface microtopography governs cell adhesion, differentiation, and tissue integration both in vitro and in vivo.
- Compare clinical implications of smooth versus microrough implant surfaces, including effects on osseointegration, tissue adhesion, and ease of implant removal.
- Evaluate experimental evidence showing that surface polishing can reduce removal torque and tissue adhesion without compromising implant stability.
- Apply surface microtopographical principles to implant design, distinguishing between requirements for permanent implants versus temporary fracture‑fixation devices.
Panellists
Our panellists include:
Professor R. Geoff Richards - FLSW, FBSE, FIOR, FORS, FTERM
Professor Richards has worked at the AO Research Institute in Davos, Switzerland since 1991. Since 2009 he has been the director with currently 145 multidisciplinary scientists who undertake cutting-edge research in regenerative medicine, tissue engineering, biomaterials and implant science. He is author on over 350 peer reviewed research articles and numerous reviews and book chapters. Stanford University produce a ranking of the world's top 2% of scientists with all disciplines combined where Professor Richards remains within the World's Top 2% of Scientists (collecting citations since 1996. His research work on titanium implant interfaces in trauma has translated to major improvements in the design and manufacture of fracture fixation devices.
CPD
1 Hour
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Recording
A recording of the webinar will be made available on this page in the days following the live broadcast.
