Osteogenesis of prefabricated vascularized periosteal graft in rabbits

Background: The role of vascularized periosteum flap as a graft and the factors stimulating it into osteogenic activity remain obscure. Few articles recognized its osteogenic process without the dependence of stress stimulation or bony contact. Methods: We analyzed the osteogenic capacity of the vascularized periosteum in an ectopic site via the method of histomorphologic assessment. Pedicled vascularized periosteum was taken from the proximal tibia in rabbits and transferred to the soft tissue pouch in the distal thigh. Specimen was harvested for osteogenesis assessment at 4 weeks, 8 weeks, and 16 weeks. Results: During macroscopic examination, all rabbits were dissected along the previous surgical wound in the distal femur. Dense osseous-like tissue was found in the prefabricated vascularized periosteum. The tissue sections showed red-mineralized matrix of Alizarin Red S staining increased neovascularization. Conclusions: The study results revealed the osteogenic capacity of prefabricating vascularized periosteum without the dependence of stress stimulation or its proximity to viable bone.