Diaphyseal reconstruction by autoclaved bone: Reimplantation experiments in rabbits

Abstract

In 8 adult rabbits, reconstruction of large humeral defects by reimplantation of resected, autoclaved bone supplemented with allogeneic bone matrix was investigated with respect to incorporation (radiography, histology), bone metabolic activity (scintigraphy, autoradiography), and strength (torsional test). Radiography showed that seven out of eight implants were incorporated at 3 months. Scintigraphy and autoradiography disclosed bone metabolic activity in the reconstructions still 8 months postoperatively. Histological investigations evidenced abundant new viable bone that partially had replaced the implants at 8 months. The torsional test disclosed that the strength of the reconstructions was 84 per cent of normal 8 months after reimplantation. Our experiment supports the concept of reimplantation of autoclaved tumorous bone supplemented with allogeneic bone matrix in reconstruction after local resection.