Summary
Introduction: Large bone defects are a therapeutic challenge to surgeons and are often associated
with a high morbidity. The use of autologous cancellous bone graft represents an essential
therapeutic option and is considered the gold standard. However, the use of platelet-rich
plasma (PRP) for improving bone defect healing has been discussed controversially.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the treatment of a diaphyseal long-bone defect
in a rabbit model with a combination of PRP and autologous cancellous bone.
Material and methods: A monocortical long-bone defect in the radial diaphysis of 24 New Zealand white rabbits
was filled either with autologous cancellous graft as a control group or with autologous
cancellous graft combined with autologous PRP. Histomorphometrical and radiological
analysis as well as quantification of platelets and growth factors were performed.
The animals were euthanatized after three and six weeks according to the study arms.
Results: A significant improvement in bone healing was observed histomorphometrically in the
PRP group in the central area of the defect zone (p <0.01) as well as the cortical
defect zone (p <0.01). The radiological findings were in accordance with the histomorphometrical
results. Comparing native blood and PRP, an enrichment of growth factors and platelets
was detectable in the PRP.
Conclusion: Within this animal study, the combination of PRP and autologous cancellous bone grafts
improved bone healing significantly compared to the sole application of autologous
bone. Therefore, further efforts should be initiated to establish the composite of
PRP and autologous bone for bone healing disorders in clinical use.
Keywords
Platelet-rich plasma - diaphysis - bone healing - autologous cancellous bone graft