A Comparative Study on Bone Defect Regeneration in a Rabbit Model using Cuttlebone as a Bone Graft Substitute

Abstract

Bone, grafting is widely used for treating substantial bone defects and losses, enhancing the healing process, and promoting successful bone union. Natural calcium carbonate powder has been used for a long time as a bone substitute material and as a scaffold for bone morphogenetic protein (BMP). The present study aims to evaluate bone defect regeneration, with 2 mm diameter and 10 mm length defects created in the right radial bone in 45 rabbits, comparing normal bone healing to cuttlebone (CB1) with a cylindrical shape (2 mm in diameter and 10 mm in length), and cuttlebone powder (CB2). Clinical, radiological, and histological evaluations were made 30, 60, and 90 days after surgery. Results of the radiological scores were comparable between the control group and CB1, followed by CB2, with no significant difference (p > 0.05). Histological scores were high in CB1, followed by the control group and CB2 without significant differences (p > 0.05). The results indicate that cylindrical cuttlebone graft closely mimics natural healing and may improve cortical regeneration. Conversely, cuttlebone in powdered form, demonstrated some limitations in maintaining structural integrity, callus formation, and remodelling.