Comparison of healing process in open osteotomy model and closed fracture model.
OBJECTIVE
Comparison of the healing process in open osteotomy and closed fracture models that were used to study fracture healing.


METHODS
Randomized, prospective study in experimental animals, with a recovery duration of two and four weeks.


METHODS
Unrestricted cage activity with weight bearing as tolerated.


METHODS
Thirty-four skeletally mature, female New Zealand White rabbits.


METHODS
Closed fractures and open osteotomies of the tibial diaphysis were reduced and immobilized with four-pin, double-bar external fixators.


METHODS
Callus circumference was measured with a tape measure, bridging callus was assessed on biplane radiographs and evaluated histologically, and torsional stiffness and maximum torque were measured.


RESULTS
Periosteum damage was more severe and hematoma formation was smaller in the osteotomy model, resulting in a delay in biological healing and restoration of the biomechanical properties.


CONCLUSIONS
Investigators should consider the difference between the closed fracture and open osteotomy models when selecting an animal model to investigate fracture healing.
The J. Vernon Luck, Sr., M.D., Orthopaedic Research Center, Los Angeles Orthopaedic Hospital, California 90007, USA.
S H
SH
Park
K
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O'Connor
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R
Sung
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McKellop
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Sarmiento
D000818:Animals; D002146:Bony Callus / Q000473:pathology; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005260:Female; D005593:Fracture Fixation, Internal; D017102:Fracture Healing / Q000502:physiology*; D005596:Fractures, Closed / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery; D010027:Osteotomy; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011817:Rabbits; D011897:Random Allocation; D013978:Tibial Fractures / Q000473:pathology* / Q000601:surgery