Cranial bone regeneration using a composite scaffold of beta-tricalcium phosphate, collagen, and autologous bone fragments

Objective. The aim of our study was to examine the tissue response and new bone formation induced by beta-tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP), collagen, and autologous bone fragments with fibrin glue implanted into a cranial bone defect. Materials and Methods. Granulated beta-TCP and collagen from porcine skin were mixed and freeze-dried. The weight ratio of both materials was 98:2. The composite scaffold for bone regeneration was composed of this artificial material and autologous bone fragments. Five adult beagle dogs were used. A cranial bone defect (2 cm x 2 cm) was created in each dog. The animals were divided into two groups. In group 1 (n = 3), the cranial bone defect was closed by replacing the original free bone flap, and the residual fissure and burr holes were filled with the composite scaffold with fibrin glue. In group 2 (n = 2), the bone defect was closed only by replacing the original free bone flap. Three months after the treatment, computed tomography and histologic examinations were done in all animals. Results: In all dogs in group 1, the defects were almost closed by new bone; whereas in group 2, the defects were filled with fibrous tissues instead of bone. Conclusion: This study showed that the composite scaffold made of beta-TCP, collagen, and autologous bone fragments with fibrin glue enabled reconstruction of cranial bone defects without the usual fixation materials.