Surface Wettability Response of Hydroxyapatite-Doped Coatings on Metallic Biomaterials: A Concise Review

The surface wettability of metallic biomaterials significantly influences the biological response of biomedical implants. However, the optimal degree of wettability depends on the specific coating or surface treatment applied to the biomaterial. Researchers have widely utilised hydroxyapatite coatings to modify implant surfaces to enhance bioactivity, biocompatibility, and osseointegration. This review article discussed the impact of hydroxyapatite-doped coatings on the surface wettability of metallic biomaterials. A systematic search of Scopus and Web of Science databases was conducted to review recent studies investigating the wettability and biological response of hydroxyapatite-doped coatings applied through standard implant surface deposition techniques. Results reveal that hydroxyapatite-doped coatings are typically hydrophilic and have higher surface energy than uncoated hydrophobic metallic surfaces. The hydrophilic nature promotes better interaction with biological fluids, resulting in cell adhesion and proliferation. The rough and porous surface increases wettability as fluid can easily penetrate the craters. Further research may elucidate the complex connectivity of deposition method process parameters with surface wettability and biological outcomes. This review briefly overviews current research on hydroxyapatite-doped coatings and their effects on surface wettability and biointegration.

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