Repair of large segmental bone defects with fascial flap-wrapped allogeneic bone

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effects of the application of fascial flap-wrapped allogeneic bone for repair of large segmental tibial defects in rabbits and provide a theoretical basis for treatment of large segmental defects in weight-bearing bones. METHODS: Forty-eight healthy adult New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits were randomized into two groups to establish 15-mm bone defects in the proximal tibia. Bone defects in test and control groups were repaired using allogeneic bone with and without a vascularized fascial flap from the rabbit proximal tibia, respectively. The differences in repair of bone defects between the two groups were assessed with postoperative X-ray examination, new bone quantity assessment, serum bone Gla protein (BGP) level, and biomechanical testing. RESULTS: The therapeutic effect in the test group was superior to that in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Fascial flap-wrapped allogeneic bone is superior to allogeneic bone alone, and is ideal for the treatment of large segmental bone defects.