through osteoconduction. Na, Si, Ca, and P ions are released. A silica gel layer forms on the bioactive glass surface. CaP crystallizes, forming a layer of hydroxyapatite on the surface of the bioactive glass. Once the hydroxyapatite layer is formed, the bioactive glass interacts with biological entities, i.e. blood proteins, growth factors and collagen. Following this interactive, osteoconductive and osteostimulative process, new bone grows onto and between the bioactive glass structures. Bioactive glass bonds to bone –facilitating new bone formation. Osteostimulation begins by stimulating osteogenic cells to increase the remodeling rate of bone. Radio-dense quality of bioactive glass allows for post-operative evaluation. In the final transformative phase, the process of bone regeneration and remodeling continues. Over time the bone fully regenerates, restoring the patient’s natural anatomy. Bone consolidation occurs. S53P4 bioactive glass continues to remodel into bone over a period of years. Bioactive glass S53P4 is currently the only bioactive glass on the market which has been proven to inhibit bacterial growth effectively. The bacterial growth inhibiting properties of S53P4 derive from two simultaneous chemical and physical processes, occurring once the bioactive glass reacts with body fluids. Sodium (Na) is released from the surface of the bioactive glass and induces an increase in pH (alkaline environment), which is not favorable for the bacteria, thus inhibiting their growth. The released Na, Ca, Si and P ions give rise to an increase in osmotic pressure due to an elevation in salt concentration, i.e. an environment where bacteria cannot grow. Today bioactive glass S53P4 is manufactured and distributed by Bonalive Biomaterials (Turku, Finland) under the product name Bonalive® granules. The products are used in both adult and pediatric patients for filling of bone cavities, voids and gaps, as well as for reconstruction or regeneration of bone defects.S53P4 bioactive glass has been used successfully in bone infections (e.g. septic non-unions and chronic osteomyelitis), trauma, spine surgery, benign bone tumors and mastoid surgery. Bioactive glass S53P4 is also used in glass fiber-reinforced composite implants for bone surgery produced by Skulle Implants Corporation in Turku, Finland (www.skulleimplants.com). Bioglass 8625 Bioglass 8625, also called Schott 8625, is a soda-lime glass used for encapsulation of implanted devices. The most common use of Bioglass 8625 is in the housings of RFID transponders for use in human and animal microchip implants. It is patented and manufactured by Schott AG. Bioglass 8625 is also used for some piercings. Bioglass 8625 does