Abstract
Objective
The ultrastructural characteristics of new bone and cartilage, induced at the site of cricoid cartilage defects treated with rhBMP-2 in rabbits, were investigated.
Study Design and Setting
A cricoid defect model was used. Fifteen rabbits were randomly and equally divided into 3 groups. Four rabbits from each group were treated with rhBMP-2, while one rabbit from each group was used as control. The rabbits were killed 1, 2, or 4 weeks after surgery. The healing pattern of the laryngeal wound was evaluated by light and transmission electron microscopy.
Results
Mineralized collagen type I matrix, osteoblasts, and osteoclast-like cells were present as early as 1 week after surgery. Well-structured bone trabeculas and growth plate-like structures were present 4 weeks after surgery.
Conclusion
Intramembranous and endochondral osteogenesis take place at the site of cricoid cartilage defects treated with rhBMP-2. Progenitor cells of cricoid perichondrium form a growth plate-like structure similar to the epiphyseal growth plate.
Significance
This study reveals the pattern of BMP-2-induced repair of airway cartilage defects.
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