[Experimental studies on exterior bFGF for enhancement of membrane guided bone regeneration]

These studies sought to evaluate the promoting effect of the exterior bFGF on membrane guided bone regeneration (MGBR). Animal models of MGBR covered with PDLLA membrane tube in bilateral radii were established in 40 New Zealand white rabbits. The membrane tubes on the left side were filled with bFGF 40 microg/100 microl and those on the contralateral side were filled with 100 microl 0.9% NaCl solution as control. The specimens were collected at 2, 4, 8, 12 weeks postoperatively. General observation, X-ray, histological grading and HE staining,and biomechanical examination were applied to studies on the repair of the models of MGBR in the two groups. Two weeks after operation, a sealed room was formed between the two bone fragments where the soft tissues covered the membrane tube. Twelve weeks after operation, PDLLA membrane became fragile and its tube shape was being maintained. Histologically, in the bFGF group numerous newly formed bone trabeculae were seen at 2 weeks after operation the radial defects had healed and the bone reconstruction and remodling had begun by the 12th week. The histological image analysis showed that the values of mean diameter and the area of new bone trabeculae in the bFGF group were higher than those in the control group (P<0.05) at 2 weeks and 4 weeks; however, there were no significant differences in these aspects between the two groups (P>0.05) at 8 and 12 weeks. The strength of the newly formed bone in the bFGF group was higher than that in the control group at 12 weeks postoperatively (P<0.05). Therefore, the authors concluded that bFGF could promote the new bone formation and biomechanical strength in the MGBR model.