Biomechanics of Calcified Triglyceride Bone Cement in Repairing Postsurgical Defects: An in Vitro Study

Abstract

Repair of postsurgical maxillofacial bone defects is still problematic. Herein, the biomechanical advantages of calcified triglyceride bone cement, a newly developed bioabsorbable graft material, are presented for this purpose. Eighteen ribs from recently killed cows were randomly divided into three groups. In group 1, no defect was created. In groups 2 and 3, mid-section defects (2 cm in diameter) were created, then left empty (group 2) or filled with calcified triglyceride bone cement (group 3). Each rib was subsequently tested on a three-point biomechanical model simulating masticatory compression loads. Mean values (medians) of loads exerted were recorded for statistical analysis. Significant differences were identified in comparing groups 1 and 2 (p = 0.043) and groups 2 and 3 (p = 0.046), but groups 1 and 3 (p = 1) did not differ significantly. Bones filled with calcified triglyceride bone cement are thus comparable to normal bone in terms of mandibular resistance and may display sound biomechanical stability postoperatively.