Repair of experimental calvarial defects with Bio-Oss particles and collagen sponges in a rabbit model

Various materials have been used for reconstruction of both acquired and congenital calvarial defects. Unfortunately, each has its limitations. Autologous bone grafts have irregular rates of resorption that may require secondary corrective surgery, and individual harvest sites have limited stores that can necessitate additional donor locations. Alloplastic materials have unlimited quantities and volume stability but they may not become incorporated and are associated with a higher incidence of infection. The optimal bone substitute should stimulate new bone formation and permanently supplant the temporary space filler, thereby reconstituting the surgical defect. We evaluated 2 newly available bone substitutes, resorbable natural bone mineral (Bio-Oss particles) and a combination of collagen and natural bone mineral collagen combination (Bio-Oss sponges), to repair calvarial defects in an adult, male, New Zealand white rabbit model. We found that the particulate Bio-Oss material resorbed and then underwent the normal physiological stages of bone remodeling. The collagen and Bio-Oss combination was replaced by new bone ingrowth. These materials may have potential for use in the reconstruction of skull defects.