Effect of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 on mandibular distraction osteogenesis

Abstract

Objective. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein- 2 (rhBMP-2) on mandibular distraction at routine and rapid distraction rates. Methods. Eighteen New Zealand white rabbits were randomly assigned to two groups, one treated at a routine distraction rate (0.9 mm/day) and the other at a rapid distraction rate (2.7 mm/day). The rhBMP-2 was injected into one side of the distraction regenerate at the end of the active distraction period, the contralateral side was used as a control. The distraction regenerates were analyzed by plain radiography, micro-computed tomography and histological examination. Results. The rhBMP-2 appears to promote bone formation at both rapid and routine distraction rates, but no statistically significant difference was observed between the BMP injection sides of the rapid and routine distraction groups. Conclusion. This study indicates that rhBMP-2 can enhance bone formation at both routine and rapid distraction rates. Addition of rhBMP-2 seems able to compensate for the adverse effects of rapid distraction rates on mandibular distraction osteogenesis.