The effect of Cox-2 specific inhibition on direct fracture healing in the rabbit tibia.

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Cox-2 administration on direct (primary) fracture healing. METHODS A transverse tibial osteotomy was created in adult male rabbits and rigidly fixed in compression using a 2.7-mm dynamic compression plate. Animals were randomized to receive either rofecoxib (12.5 mg orally per day) or placebo. Animals were killed at 4 weeks and fracture healing assessed by mechanical testing. RESULTS There were no significant differences between the control and Cox-2 treated animals in terms of mechanical strength at 4 weeks. There was a high complication rate of peri-implant fractures during the daily medication administration. CONCLUSION The immediate administration of a Cox-2 specific inhibitor did not impair primary (direct) bone healing at the dose administered in this rabbit tibial osteotomy model.