Individual Tissue-Engineered Bone in Repairing Bone Defects: A 10-Year Follow-Up Study
Peng Yang1,2,3,4, Junchao Xing1,2,3,4, Jie Liu1,2,3,4
1National and Regional United Engineering Laboratory of Tissue Engineering, Department of Orthopaedics, The Third Military Medical University, Southwest Hospital, Chongqing, China.
Tissue Engineering. Part A
|February 7, 2020
Summary
Individual tissue-engineered bones (iTEBs) using stem cells and bone matrix effectively repaired bone defects long-term. This safe and reliable method shows promise for patients with limited graft options, particularly for smaller bone voids.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Regenerative Medicine
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Bone defects pose significant clinical challenges with current treatments often unsatisfactory.
- Limited autologous bone sources or allogeneic bone graft failures necessitate alternative solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of individual tissue-engineered bones (iTEBs) for repairing bone defects.
- To assess iTEBs in patients with limited autologous bone or failed allografts.
Main Methods:
- Constructed iTEBs using autologous bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells and allogeneic decalcified bone matrix (DBM).
- Evaluated 26 patients over a 10-year follow-up using radiological exams, functional scores (MSTS, Barthel Index), and laboratory tests.
Main Results:
- Mean healing time for lacunar defects was 3.87 months; structural defects took over 12 months.
- Significant improvements in MSTS and Barthel Index scores were observed.
- No adverse effects on systemic health markers (WBC, ESR, CRP, complement, immunoglobulins, liver/renal function) were noted. One case of relapse was successfully re-treated. No tumorigenesis or disease transmission occurred.
Conclusions:
- Individual tissue-engineered bones (iTEBs) demonstrate long-term effectiveness and safety for bone defect repair.
- iTEBs are particularly beneficial for patients with lacunar bone defects and limited autograft availability.
- This study provides a basis for the clinical application of TEBs in treating bone defects.
