Factors stimulating bone formation.
The aim of this review is to describe major approaches for stimulating bone healing and to review other factors affecting bone healing. Spinal bone fusion after surgery is a demanding process requiring optimal conditions for clinical success. Bone formation and healing can be enhanced through various methods. Experimental studies have revealed an array of stimulative measures. These include biochemical stimulation by use of hormones and growth factors, physical stimulation through mechanical and electromagnetic measures, and bone grafting by use of bone tissue or bone substitutes. Newer biological techniques such as stem cell transplantation and gene therapy can also be used to stimulate bone healing. Apart from bone transplantation, clinical experience with the many stimulation modalities is limited. Possible areas for clinical use of these novel methods are discussed.
Lind
M
M
Orthopaedic Research Laboratory, University Hospital of Aarhus, Denmark. martinlind@dadlnet.dk
Bünger
C
C
D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D000818:Animals; D016025:Bone Transplantation; D001842:Bone and Bones / Q000502:physiology; D006133:Growth Substances / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D010012:Osteogenesis / Q000502:physiology*; D014945:Wound Healing / Q000502:physiology
D006133:Growth Substances