Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the ability of vascularized periosteum to induce bone formation under functional loading in vivo.
To achieve this, a gap was created in the ribs of mini pigs while functional loading was provided by the respiratory movements.
Sixteen juvenile mini pigs were used, assigned in 4 different groups. In group A, a 1,4 cm rib gap was internally fixated (KLS Martin LP 2,0 mm mini plates and screws) and the periosteum flap was entirely preserved and sutured in situ. In group B the same method was followed, but the periosteum adjacent to the gap was completely excised. In group C, the periosteum was preserved; fixation was used and in addition to these, a biologically inert cement was used to obliterate the marrow cavities at the osteotomy sites. Finally, group D (control) included animals in which the gap was left without fixation and periosteum was completely removed.
Specimens were harvested at 8 weeks and were evaluated macroscopically, radiologically and histopathologically.
Data was analyzed using Fisher’s exact test and non-parametric statistics.
Results of this study showed that all gaps created in group A and 10 in 11 in group C demonstrated complete bone formation, bridging the entire defect. No traces of bone formation were observed in groups B and D.
These results indicate that rib periosteum has extremely high osteogenic capacity and can bridge large defects in vivo under the following conditions: a) its vascular supply is preserved and b) rigid fixation and functional loading is applied.
The abstracts were prepared by Eleni Koutsoukou. Correspondence should be addressed to him at the Hellenic Association of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology (HAOST), 20, A. Fleming str, 15123 Marousi, Athens, Greece.
