How is Biodegradable Scaffold Effective in Gap Non-union? Insights from an Experiment

Objective: To evaluate the role of composite (Chitosan/Chondroitin sulphate/gelatin/nano-bioglass) scaffold in the union of critical size bone defect created in the rabbit’s ulna. Methods: The composite (Chitosan/Chondroitin sulphate/gelatin/nano-bioglass) scaffold was fabricated using the freeze-drying technique under standard laboratory conditions. The scaffold was cut into the appropriate size and transferred into the defect created (critical bone size defect 1 cm) over the right ulna in the rabbit. The scaffold was not implanted on the left side thus the left side ulna served as control. Results were assessed on serial radiological examination. Rabbits were sacrificed at 20 weeks for histopathological examination (Haematoxylin–Eosin staining and Mason’s trichrome staining) and scanning electron microscope observation. Radiological scoring was done by Lane and Sandhu’s scoring. Results: Among 12 rabbits, 10 could complete the follow-up. Among those 10 rabbits, 8 among the test group showed good evidence of bone formation at the gap non-union scaffold implanted site. Histological evidence of new bone formation, collagen synthesis, scaffold resorption, minimal chondrogenesis was evident by 20 weeks in the test group. Two rabbits had poor bone formation. Conclusion: The chitosan-chondroitin sulphate-gelatin-nano-bioglass composite scaffold is efficient in osteoconduction and osteoinduction in the gap non-union model as it is biocompatible, bioactive, and non-immunogenic as well.