ABSTRACT
Hydroxyapatite cement (HAC) is a calcium phosphate cement whose properties overcome
the inherent limitations of previous forms of hydroxyapatite. HAC (BoneSource, Leibinger
Corp., Dallas, TX) is prepared as a powder that forms an easily applicable paste which
hardens in six to 20 minutes. HAC exhibits excellent biocompatibility, is easily contoured
in situ, is highly stable, and allows osteoconduction. The use of calcium phosphate
cements (CPC) for reconstruction of craniofacial defects has intrinsic appeal owing
to the chemical and physical properties of hydroxyapatite. Difficulty in contouring
CPC implants, their lack of compressive strength, and their failure to allow osteoinduction
were significant limitations in the use of earlier forms of hydroxyapatite for skeletal
reconstruction. HAC offers an excellent reconstructive option for repair of various
craniofacial defects.
KEYWORD
cement - BoneSource - alloplast - osteoconduction
