Objective: The aim of this experimental study was to evaluate the effects of alpha-tocopherol on new bone formation by distraction osteogenesis.

Materials and Methods: Tirthy New Zealand white rabbits were randomly divided into 2 groups. Bone lengthening was performed in the right tibia through distraction osteogenesis at a rate of 0,5 mm/day for 20 days with circular external fixator (CEF). While the experimental group rabbits were administered i.m. 20mg/kg alpha tocopherol daily starting at the first day of study lasting for 20 days, control group rabbits did not receive any corresponding treatment. Radiographic examination were performed at 20th, 30th and 40th days. Scintigraphic evaluation for osteoblastic activity was at 5th and 20th day of the study. Serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was measured at first day and 20th day of the study. All animals were sacrificed at the end of the consolidation period of 40 days. The right tibia of all animals were removed and evaluated by histopathologic examination. Results were compared between groups and statistically analysed. A p value less than 0.05 is considered as significant in 95% confidence interval.

Results: At the 20th day, radiologic scores were statistically similar in both groups. However, at the 30th and 40th days, experimental group demonstrated statistically significant high radiologic scores and visible callus formation, maturation and remodelling. Scintigraphic baseline study at 5th day of study showed statistically similar osteoblastic activity in both groups. However, at the 20th day osteoblastic activity was significantly higher in experimental group. Serum TAC values were also significantly higher in experimental group at 20th day. At necropsy, experimental group rabbits got statistically significant high scores in histopathologic examination and showed the formation of mature bone.

Conclusions: Results of this study showed that alpha-tocopherol had beneficial effects on new bone formation by distraction osteogenesis. Administration of supplemental alpha tocopherol in patients treated with distarction osteogenesis may shorthen the framing time and increase the quality of regenerated bone.

Purpose: The purpose of this biomechanical study is to compare the double reconstruction plate osteosynthesis versus double tension band osteosynthesis in the fixation of osteoporotic supracondylar humeral fractures.

Materials and Methods: Sixteen fresh cadavers (mean age: 75, range:70–80) were randomized into two experimental groups. Same supracondylar transverse humeral fractures were formed in both groups. Fractures in the first group, were fixed with double tension band technique using 2mm in diameter Kirschner wires and 1mm in diameter tension wires. Fractures in the second group, were fixed with double reconstruction plate osteosynthesis using 3,5mm reconstruction plates each fixing medial and lateral columns. Distal fragment was fixed with only one screw. Axial loading, maximum load, failure load and failure patterns were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed with SPSS 13.90 soft ware program. Groups were compared with Mann Whitney U test.

Results: Minimum load reqired for fracture displacement was statistically higher in double reconstruction plate osteosynthesis group (p< 0.005). Minumum load reqired for fixation failure was statistically higher in double reconstrution plate osteosynthesis group (p< 0,020).

Conclusion: Fracture healing mainly depends on a stable fracture fixation. Double plate ostesynthesis should be preferred over double tension band technique in osteoporotic supracondylar humeral fractures as it provides more stability.