Repair of segmental radial defect with autologous bone marrow aspirate and hydroxyapatite in rabbit radius: A clinical and radiographic evaluation

AIM: Finding an ideal bone substitute to treat large bone defects, delayed union and nonunions remain a challenge for orthopedic surgeons and researchers. Several studies have been conducted on bone regeneration; each has its own advantages and disadvantages. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a combination of hydroxyapatite (HA) powder with autologous bone marrow (BM) aspirate on the repair of segmental radial defect in a rabbit model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 36 male and adult New Zealand rabbit with a mean weight of 2.25 kg were used in this study. Approximately, 5 mm defect was created in the mid-shaft of the radius to be filled with HA powder in the control group “HA” (n=18) and with a combination of HA powder and autologous BM aspirate in the test group “HA+BM” (n=18). Animals were observed daily for healing by inspection of the surgical site, and six rabbits of each group were sacrificed at 30, 60, and 90 post-operative days to perform a radiographic evaluation of defect site. RESULTS: Obtained results revealed a better and more rapid bone regeneration in the test group: Since the defect was rapidly and completely filled with mature bone tissue after 90 days. CONCLUSION: Based on these findings, we could infer that adding a BM aspirate to HA is responsible of a better regeneration process leading to a complete filling of the defect.