Void filling of tibia compression fracture zones using a novel resorbable nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite paste in combination with a hydroxyapatite ceramic core: first clinical results.

Introduction: It is a generally accepted standard surgical practice to fill-in the metaphyseal defect zones resulting from the reduction of tibia compression fractures. The development of various innovative bone substitutes is also currently on the increase.

Materials And Methods: In our prospective study, we used Ostim, a novel resorbable nanocrystalline hydroxyapatite paste, together with Cerabone, a solid hydroxyapatite ceramic, in combination with angularly stable osteosynthesis to treat 24 tibia compression fractures. Types B2 and B3, as well as types C2 and C3 fractures, according to the AO classification, were included in the study.

Results: The mean total range of joint motion in terms of flexion and extension was improved from the immediate postoperative value of 79 +/- 14 degrees to 97 +/- 13 degrees at 6 weeks after surgery, to 109 +/- 16 degrees at 3 months, and finally to 118 +/- 17 degrees at 1 year. In three patients, a delayed wound healing was observed as a local complication.

Conclusion: The use of the Ostim and Cerabone combination is an effective method in treating tibia compression fractures with large defect zones left after reduction.