Biodegradable guide for bone regeneration

Abstract

Segmental, 1-cm osteoperiosteal defects were produced in both radii of 10 rabbits. One defect was covered with a biodegradable polyurethane membrane formed as a tube. The contralateral defect served as an untreated control. Healing was analyzed by radiographic and histologic studies after 5 weeks. Nine out of 10 control defects displayed nonunion, whereas membrane-treated defects consistently healed by forming callus external to the membrane fusing the bone fragments. Loose connective tissue was predominant in the bone gap underneath the membrane.