**3. Results**

### *3.1. Clinical Observations Following Implantation*

Four weeks after the implantation procedure, the performed CT scans demonstrated the correct placement and a good integration of all implants into the surrounding bone (Figure 5).

**Figure 5.** Lateral computed tomography images showing the positioning of the 3D metallic implants (right foot—implant functionalized with Li-C coating, left foot—control Ti implant), at 4 weeks after surgery.

The results of the osseous density measurements at the implant–bone interface, for control and functionalized (with Li-C and Li-P coatings) 3D Ti implants, are summarized in Tables 1 and 2.

**Table 1.** Osseous density (mean ± standard deviation, SD) inferred at the implant–bone interface for control and functionalized (with Li-C coatings) 3D Ti implants.


**Table 2.** Osseous density (mean ± SD) inferred at the implant–bone interface for control and functionalized (with Li-P coatings) 3D Ti implants.


For all investigated 3D Ti implants, CT scans revealed at the implant–bone interface the presence of the peripheral osteosclerosis, and no inflammatory process of the soft tissues.

The results presented in Tables 1 and 2 point out to an increase of the osseous density, for both investigated time periods. Therefore, the bone density values corresponding to the 3D Ti implants functionalized with both Li-C and Li-P coatings, measured at 9 weeks, were ~1.2 times higher than those inferred at 4 weeks after surgery, respectively. At 4 weeks after surgery, both functionalized 3D Ti implants (with Li-C and Li-P coatings) showed bone density values ~1.3 times higher than those obtained in the case of control 3D Ti implants. Moreover, at 9 weeks, the density values inferred in the case of functionalized 3D Ti implants were ~1.4 times higher as compared to control ones.

One should also stress upon that, all rabbits were able to walk normally within 6 h after the implantation surgery. Moreover, no macroscopic signs of infection or adverse reactions were observed, and none of the rabbits died or suffered a bone fracture during this study.
