A Radiological Approach to Evaluate Bone Graft Integration in Reconstructive Surgeries

Date:  

2019

Journal:  

Applied Sciences

Author:  

C. F. Grottoli, R. Ferracini, M. Compagno, A.  Tombolesi, O. Rampado, L. Pilone, A. Bistolfi, A. Borrè, A. Cingolaniand G. Perale

Link:  

Link PDF

(1) Background: Bone tissue engineering is a promising tool to develop new smart solutions
for regeneration of complex bone districts, from orthopedic to oral and maxillo-facial fields. In this
respect, a crucial characteristic for biomaterials is the ability to fully integrate within the patient
body. In this work, we developed a novel radiological approach, in substitution to invasive histology,
for evaluating the level of osteointegration and osteogenesis, in both qualitative and quantitative
manners. (2) SmartBone®, a composite xeno-hybrid bone graft, was selected as the base material
because of its remarkable effectiveness in clinical practice. Using pre- and post-surgery computed
tomography (CT), we built 3D models that faithfully represented the patient’s anatomy, with special
attention to the bone defects. (3) Results: This way, it was possible to assess whether the new
bone formation respected the natural geometry of the healthy bone. In all cases of the study (four
dental, one maxillo-facial, and one orthopedic) we evaluated the presence of new bone formation
and volumetric increase. (4) Conclusion: The newly established radiological protocol allowed the
tracking of SmartBone®effective integration and bone regeneration. Moreover, the patient’s anatomy
was completely restored in the defect area and functionality completely rehabilitated without foreign
body reaction or inflammation.

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