Use of an osteoinductive biomaterial (rhOP-1) in healing large segmental bone defects.

Objective: To assess the radiographic, histologic, and mechanical characteristics of new bone formation in large segmental bone defects treated with a new osteoconductive material, recombinant human osteogenic protein-1 (rhOP-1).

Design: In vivo animal study.

Intervention: Sixteen dogs (thirty-two limbs) with an ulna segmental defect (2.5 centimeters) were randomized to three treatment groups: rhOP-1, collagen alone, and no implant.

Main Outcome Measurements: Radiographic evidence of defect healing, mechanical testing (torsional strength) as compared with thirty-one control intact dog ulnas, and histologic analysis.

Results: At twelve weeks, complete radiographic healing was observed in twenty-five of twenty-eight defects (89 percent) treated with rhOP-1. The mechanical strength of the rhOP-1-treated defects at twelve weeks was 65 percent of that of intact ulnas. Histologic analysis revealed that defects treated with rhOP-1 were bridged with lamellar and woven bone that was in continuity with the host bone.

Conclusions: The results indicate that osteoinductive materials, which have the ability to quickly fill and heal large defects, may have advantages over osteoconductive materials, which are typically used to fill smaller non-load-bearing bone voids.