Use of osteogenic protein-1 in the management of a nonunion radial fracture in a Squirrel Monkey (Saimiri boliviensis)

A Squirrel Monkey (Saimiri boliviensis) presented with comminuted, proximal diaphyseal fractures of the left radius and ulna which were repaired with a type II acrylic external fixateur and intramedullary pin, respectively. T he external fixateur was removed six weeks postoperatively as the antebrach ium was stable despite radiographic evidence that the radial fracture had f ailed to completely heal. Eight months postoperatively, radiographic examin ation revealed a nonunion fracture of the proximal radial diaphysis. The no nunion fracture was stabilised with a miniplate and screws, and osteogenic protein-1 (OP-1) (bone morphogenetic protein-7) was inserted to augment bon y union. Radiographic evidence of fracture healing was present four weeks p ostoperatively. Bone morphogenetic proteins, in particular OP-1, can be use d as a substitute for autogenous cancellous bone if there is an insufficien t quantity of cancellous bone or harvesting will result in unacceptable mor bidity.