Effects of rhBMP-2 loaded titanium reinforced collagen membranes on horizontal bone augmentation in dogs

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of growth factor loaded collagen membranes on new bone formation during horizontal bone augmentation. Mandibular defects (4 × 4 × 4 mm) were surgically prepared in six male beagle dogs, which were then protected with one of three types of membranes: (1) titanium mesh, (2) titanium reinforced collagen, or (3) rhBMP-2 loaded titanium reinforced collagen. Animals were euthanized 8 and 16 weeks after surgery, and nondecalcified specimens were prepared and histomorphologically investigated to determine the degree of osteogenesis.Datawere analyzed with Friedman test. With respect to the degree of osteogenesis at earlier stage (8weeks after surgery), there was significantly higher newbone ratio in rhBMP-2 loaded membrane group (p > 0.05). However, with respect to the long-term results (16 weeks after surgery), there were no significant differences among the three membranes (p > 0.05). Based on histomorphometric analysis, there were no significant differences in horizontal bone gaining ratio (p > 0.05).