Recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein 2 enhances bone healing in an experimental model of fractures at risk of non-union.

Introduction: Identification of patients at risk of developing non-union and institution of procedures preventing non-union could be attractive in routine fracture management. We investigated whether recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein (rhBMP-2) delivered in a hyaluronic acid carrier could prevent non-union development in an experimental non-union model, which simulates the clinical situation of open mid-tibial fractures.

Methods: Sixteen rabbits underwent a standard non-union operation comprising mid-tibial osteotomy, excision of periosteum and endosteum, and plate fixation.