The osteoinductive property of decalcified bone matrix. An experimental study

Abstract

Demineralized homologous bone-matrix implant was used to bridge a large circumferential osteoperiosteal gap in the diaphysis of the ulna of rabbits. Periodic observations of the graft were made clinically, radiologically, histologically and by tetracycline fluorescene up to 42 wk. By the 12th wk after operation 81% of the animals revealed bone formation in the implant and complete bridging of the gap. The new bone was laid on the surface and in the substance of the matrix, suggesting that the inductive principle was acting locally. The bone, once formed, remodelled to the texture of a mature tubular bone and did not undergo absorption during a long follow-up period. Demineralized bone-matrix proved to be a highly osteoinductive and readily osteoconductive material. The graft did not evoke any appreciable local foreign-body or immunogenic reaction. The high degree of success in bridging massive bone defects justifies further serious studies and hopes for a useful substitute for massive autologous bone grafts.