Comparable bone healing capacity of different bone graft matrices in a rabbit segmental defect model

We compared the bone healing capacity of three different demineralized bone matrix (DBM) products applied using different carrier molecules (hyaluronic acid [HA] vs. carboxymethylcellulose [CMC]) or bone compositions (cortical bone vs. cortical bone and cancellous bone) in a rabbit segmental defect model. Overall, 15-mm segmental defects in the left and right radiuses were created in 36 New Zealand White rabbits and filled with HA-based demineralized cortical bone matrix (DBX), CMC-based demineralized cortical bone matrix (DB) or CMC-based demineralized cortical bone with cancellous bone (NDDB), and the wound area was evaluated at 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-implantation. DBX showed significantly lower radiopacity, bone volume fraction, and bone mineral density than DB and NDDB before implantation. However, bone healing score, bone volume fraction, bone mineral density, and residual bone area at 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-implantation revealed no significant differences in bone healing capacity. Overall, three DBM products with different carrier molecules or bone compositions showed similar bone healing capacity.