This investigation studies how nano-(delta-TiH, gamma-TiH2, and alpha-TiH1.971) phases affect the formation of multi-nano-titania film by anodization and cathodic pretreatment. Nano-titanium hydrides and substoichiometric nano-titanium hydrides were formed during cathodization. A multi-nanoporous titania film was formed on the titanium during anodization. The nanohydrides are directly transformed to multi-nanoporous titania film by dissolution following anodization. Anodization with cathodic pretreatment not only yields a titanium surface with a multi-nanostructure, but also transforms the titanium surface into a nanostructured titania surface. Formation of nanohydrides by cathodization and oxidation by anodization are believed to promote biocompatibility and improve bone-to-interface contact, accelerating initial osseointegration and re-osseointegration. (c) 2008 The Electrochemical Society.