Autoclaved bone autograph reconstituted with autologous bone marrow.

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Oncology

Background:

• Mandibular reconstruction presents challenges in oncological cases.
• Current microvascularized free flap methods result in aesthetic and functional discrepancies.
• Novel reconstructive techniques are needed for improved patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of restoring bone viability in a sterilized mandibular segment using autologous bone marrow.
• To explore a new method for osseous reconstruction in the oncological setting.

Main Methods:

• A 6-7 cm mandibular segment was excised from three dogs and autoclaved.
• The segment was drilled and reconstituted with autologous bone marrow and particulated bone.
• The bone graft was implanted subcutaneously for evaluation.

Main Results:

• Radiotracer uptake confirmed bone marrow viability at four weeks post-surgery.
• Histopathology revealed new vessel and osteoid formation.
• New bone production was confirmed at twelve weeks.

Conclusions:

• Sterilized bone, when reconstituted with bone marrow, demonstrates regained viability.
• This technique shows potential for reliable and straightforward osseous reconstruction, including the mandible.
• Autoclaved bone grafts with autologous bone marrow offer a viable reconstructive solution.