Reconstruction of canine mandibular bone defects using a bone transport reconstruction plate

OBJECTIVES: Reconstruction of mandibular segmental bone defects is a challenging task. This study tests a new device used for reconstructing mandibular defects based on the principle of bone transport distraction osteogenesis. METHODS: Thirteen beagle dogs were divided into control and experimental groups. In all animals, a 3-cm defect was created on one side of the mandible. In 8 control animals, the defect was stabilized with a reconstruction plate without further reconstruction and the animals were killed 2 to 3 months after surgery. The remaining 5 animals were reconstructed with a bone transport reconstruction plate, comprising a reconstruction plate with attached intraoral transport unit, and were killed after 1 month of consolidation. RESULTS: Clinical evaluation, cone-beam CT densitometry, three-dimensional histomorphometry, and docking site histology revealed significant new bone formation within the defect in the distracted group. CONCLUSION: The physical dimensions and architectural parameters of the new bone were comparable to the contralateral normal bone. Bone union at the docking site remains a problem.