No effects of local somatomedin C on bone repair. Continuous infusion in rats

We studied the effect of continuous local application of human recombinant somatomedin C (110 micrograms/100 g/day) on bone repair in a rat femoral osteotomy model. The mechanical strength and various metabolic variables were evaluated four weeks postoperatively. We did not find any effect in the treatment group as compared to controls on torsional strength, deformation, or stiffness. Radiographic healing was similar in both groups. Nor was there any difference in callus weight, callus vascularization, or mineralization. Our results suggest that local administration of this dose of somatomedin C does not promote the early phase of diaphyseal repair in long bones.