Evaluation of the Regenerative Capacity of Demineralized Bone Matrix vs Fat Graft in Alveolar Cleft Model in Albino Rats

Abstract

Aim: This study was performed to evaluate the regenerative capacity of demineralized bone matrix vs fat graft, both guided by pericardium membrane in alveolar cleft model in albino rats. Materials and methods: A total of 72 rats were required in this study. A surgical bone defect with a 7 mm length × 4 mm width × 3 mm depth was created as a model of an alveolar cleft, then the rats were divided randomly into four equal groups each group contained 18 rats: control group (defect only), the membrane group (the defect was covered by the pericardium membrane), the demineralized bone matrix (DBM) group (the defect was filled with DBM guided by pericardium membrane) and fat group (the defect was filled with a fat graft guided by the pericardium membrane). Around 6 rats from each group were euthanized after 2, 4, and 8 weeks. Skulls were scanned with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and harvested for histological evaluation with routine H&E immunohistochemical stains (Anti-osteocalcin and Anti-Wnt5a). The data was recorded and statistically analyzed by a two-way ANOVA. Results: The study showed a notable formation of new bone, and expression of OCN and Wnt5a were notably increased by time in the fat group. However, the density of bone grafts and OCN and Wnt5a expression decreased with time in the DBM group. Control and membrane groups showed negative OCN and Wnt5a immune-reactivity in the cleft site. Conclusion: Fat graft results were superior to DBM results with regard to mucosal closure and accelerated bone regeneration, and may represent an effective treatment for alveolar cleft reconstruction. Clinical significance: Finding an inexpensive, accessible, biocompatible and easily manipulated treatment for craniofacial reconstruction and fat graft fulfilled the desired aims. Further investigations with prolonged evaluation periods are needed.