[Autologous cancellous bone grafting in rabbits using a fibrinogen adhesive system (author's transl)].

Abstract

The changes in remodelling of autologous cancellous bone after reimplantation using a fibrinogen adhesive system (FAS) consisting of highly concentrated fibrinogen, thrombin and factor XIII were investigated in 23 rabbits. A 5 x 6 mm sized piece of bone was removed from the iliac crest and reimplanted in the same place with and without FAS. Histological, tetracycline fluorescence and radiological evaluation were carried out after 3, 6 and 9 weeks. The control group (without FAS) showed considerable breakdown of the bony trabeculae due to regression of the osteocytes in the centre of the reimplanted bone after 3 weeks, whereas in the FAS group bone was being built on to the vital trabeculae. After 6 weeks the reimplant in the FAS group was still clearly advanced in relation to the non-FAS group. The difference had almost disappeared after 9 weeks. Acceleration of remodelling and lack of regression of the osteocytes in the centre of autologous reimplants after the use of FAS indicates an earlier recommencement of nutrition as compared with the control group. New bone formation in autologous reimplants was clearly accelerated by the use of FAS.