[Experimental principles and clinical experiences in the use of allogeneic spongiosa]

Although the biological activity of autologous spongiosa is undisputed, considerable treatment problems can arise when filling up major bone defects, in aseptic pseudarthroses or in pathological fractures. Remaining defects or instabilities which do not allow us to expect osseous bridging-over prompted us to use deep-frozen allogenic spongiosa because of the restricted availability (if at all) of autologous spongiosa. Experimental studies employing Alsatian mongrels using the tracer microsphere method resulted in good blood supply and hence bone healing with good positioning of the graft and compresses spongiosa. The experimental results confirm the clinical experiences with simultaneous stable osteosynthesis.