Radiologic and histologic assessment of diced cartilage grafts for cranial bone defects of rabbits: an experimental study.

This study was performed to experimentally evaluate the viability and coverage of diced cartilage grafts for cranial defects. Biparietal bone defects were prepared in each of 20 rabbits. Otogenous bone grafts were fixed to one side, whereas cartilage grafts taken from the right ear, diced, and wrapped with oxidized regenerated cellulose (Surgicel) were placed on other side. Parenchymal impression, contour, and ossification of all grafts in the 16 rabbits surviving after 8 weeks were evaluated with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. The existence of ossification was examined pathologically. Parenchymal impression was significantly more frequent in bone grafts than in cartilage grafts (p < 0.05). This difference probably is attributable to the application technique. There was no significant radiographic difference in other parameters between the two groups. No significant difference in ossification was found. In conclusion, ossification was seen radiologically and pathologically in diced cartilage grafts. Because of autogenicity, ease of shaping, absence of postoperative warping, reduced resorption rates, and inherent viability and ossification properties, the authors suggest that diced cartilage grafts may be an alternative material for cranial defects, especially for frontal cranial reconstruction in which deformities may cause aesthetic and functional disabilities. The authors believe that further long-term studies also are needed.