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The induced membrane technique in animal models: a systematic review
Hening Sun1, Charles Godbout1, Kalter Hali1
1Keenan Research Center for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital - Unity Health Toronto, University of Toronto, Toronto.
Summary
The induced membrane technique (IMT) shows promise for bone defects, but preclinical studies often neglect key healing outcomes. Future research should prioritize reporting radiographic union and biomechanical testing for better clinical translation.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Regenerative Medicine
- Biomaterials Science
Background:
- The induced membrane technique (IMT) is a two-stage surgical approach increasingly utilized for managing bone defects.
- Preclinical research is essential for understanding and refining the IMT.
- This review focuses on IMT studies conducted in animal models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the existing literature on the induced membrane technique (IMT) in animal models.
- To identify gaps and potential future directions for IMT research.
- To evaluate the reporting of outcome measures in preclinical IMT studies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was performed using Biosis Citation Index, Ovid Embase, and Ovid MEDLINE.
- Studies involving the IMT for segmental long bone defects in animal models were selected.
- Data extraction focused on animal models, surgical procedures, and outcome measures.
Main Results:
- Forty-seven studies were included in the review.
- While many studies performed both stages of the IMT, few explicitly reported radiographic union rates (17%) or included biomechanical testing (11%).
- A significant portion of preclinical IMT literature lacks reporting on critical bone healing outcomes.
Conclusions:
- The preclinical literature on IMT often fails to report essential outcome measures like radiographic union.
- Focusing solely on membrane properties may limit clinical applicability if bony healing is not assessed.
- Future animal studies should prioritize reporting radiographic union and biomechanical data for improved clinical relevance.
