MORPHOLOGICAL AND BIOMECHANICAL DIFFERENCE IN HEALING IN SEGMENTAL TIBIAL DEFECTS IMPLANTED WITH BIOCORAL(R) OR TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE CYLINDERS

To evaluate the effects of two bioceramics on bone regeneration during repair of segmental bone defects, Biocoral(R) and tricalcium phosphat e cylinders were implanted in osteotomized sheep tibial defects 16 mm in length and followed up for 16 weeks. In comparison with the TCP-imp lanted defect, a significant increment in area and density of external callus was quantified radiomorphometrically at 3 weeks, and a marked increase in maximal torque capacity, maximal angle of deformation and absorption of energy was demonstrated mechanically in the Biocoral-imp lanted tibia at 16 weeks after implantation. Better bone integration w ith the substratum was microscopically observed in Biocoral cylinders. With good osteointegration and biomechanical-performance, Biocoral se ems to be superior to TCP in repair of segmental defects in weight-bea ring limbs. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Limited.