Validation of a rabbit model of irradiated bone healing: preliminary report

• Main Authors: Desoutter Aline, Langonnet Stephan, Deneuve Sophie, Bera Jean-Christophe, Chaux-Bodard Anne-Gaëlle
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: EDP Sciences 2020-01-01
• Series: Journal of Oral Medicine and Oral Surgery
• Subjects: external radiotherapy; bone healing; animal model
• Online Access: https://www.jomos.org/articles/mbcb/full_html/2020/02/mbcb190071/mbcb190071.html

Introduction: External radiotherapy can lead to severe bone alteration. The aim of this pilot study was to validate a model for assessment of postextractional bone healing in the irradiated rabbit mandible. Material and method: The radiation protocol consisted of 5 sessions delivering 8.5 Gy each. Surgery was performed immediately after completion of radiotherapy. Sacrifices were performed from Day 0 to Day 42. Results: The bone mineral density and the trabecular number were decreased after radiotherapy whereas trabecular separation increased. The main differences between irradiated and non-irradiated rabbits were observed at Day 28 and 42. Discussion: Radiation seems to cause a delay in bone healing. It decreases bone quality and bone mineral density. Five sessions seem to be a valuable compromise between tissues effect and feasibility of the experiment. Conclusion: This model seems to be valuable for evaluating postextractional bone healing in the irradiated rabbit mandible.