Rh-BMP-2 in distraction osteogenesis: dose effect and premature consolidation

We asked whether locally applied recombinant-bone morphogenic protein-2 (rh-BMP-2) with a type I collagen carrier could enhance the consolidation phase in distraction osteogenesis and whether a dose effect could be reported. We performed unilateral transverse osteotomy of the tibia in 15 immature male rabbits. In Group I (five rabbits), 750 microg of rh-BMP-2 on the type I collagen sponge (Inductos, Medtronic) was locally applied on the day of osteotomy; the Group II animals (five rabbits) received 375 microg of the drug and the Group III (control group, five rabbits) had no local application. After 7 days, 3 weeks of distraction was begun at a rate of 0.5 mm/12 h. Starting week 2 of distraction, we assessed radiographic, ultrasonographic, and densitometric parameters once per week. Animals were sacrificed after a 3-week consolidation period. Radiographic evaluation revealed increased regenerate ossification in the rh-BMP-2 groups compared with the control group. The bone mineral content was significantly higher in the rh-BMP-2 treated groups at each time point. A dose effect is shown as densitometric parameters were significantly higher between Groups I and II. 3/5 of the Group I treated animals developed a premature bony union in the regenerate resulting in premature fusion and incomplete distraction.