Effects of Combination of BMP7, PFG, and Autograft on Healing of the Experimental Critical Radial Bone Defect by Induced Membrane (Masquelet) Technique in Rabbit

Abstract

Background: Healing of large segmental bone defects can be challenging for orthopedic surgeons. This research wasconducted to provide further insight into the effects of BMP7 in combination with autograft and platelet fibrin glue (PFG)on bone regeneration by Masquelet technique (MT).Methods: Twenty five domestic male rabbits, more than 6 months old, weighing 2.00±0.25 kg were randomly dividedinto five equal groups as follows: MT-blank cavity (without any biological or synthetic materials) (1), blank cavity (2), MTautograft(3), MT-autograft-BMP7 (4), and MT-BMP7-PFG (5). A 20 mm segmental defect was made in radial bone inboth forelimbs. The Masquelet technique was done in all groups except group 2. The study was evaluated by radiology,biomechanics, histopathology and scanning electron microscopy.Results: The results showed that Masquelet technique enhanced the healing process, as, the structural and functionalcriteria of the injured bone showed significantly improved bone healing (p <0.05). Treatment by PFG-BMP7, Autograft-BMP7, and autograft demonstrated beneficial effects on bone healing. However, Autograft-BMP7 was more effectivethan autograft in healing of the radial defect in rabbits.Conclusion: Our findings introduce the osteogenic materials in combination with Masquelet technique as an alternativefor reconstruction of the big diaphyseal defects in the long bones in animal models. Our findings may be useful forclinical application in future.Level of evidence: V