The Effect of Bone Marrow Graft on Bone Healing: A Radiological and Biomechanical Study

Background: There are multiple methods for acceleration of bone healing. Bone marrow has been shown to contain osteoprogenitor cells. Objective: To determine the effect of percutaneous bone marrow injection on bone healing. Methods: 15 mature, 2-kg-weighing white New Zealand rabbits from both sexes were randomized into 3 groups: Group I: Only osteotomy of right radius was performed and a 5 mm bony defect was made. Group II:  Same as group I, with the defect filled by bone-graft, taken from the iliac crest. Group III:  Same as group I plus percutaneous bone marrow injection 5 days after the operation. 45 days post-operation, the rabbits were sacrificed.  The radii of both forelimbs were isolated and tested by tensile testing machine. Results: There was a significant difference between groups I and III (p<0.001) for toleration of maximum load and bending stiffness. No significant difference was observed between groups II and III for these parameters. Conclusion: Bone marrow injection has an effect on bone healing comparable to bone grafting.  This technique is non-invasive and simple without any significant complication.