Analysis of bone healing with a novel bone wax substitute compared with bone wax in a porcine bone defect model

Abstract

Aim: This pilot study describes a novel composite of hydroxyapatite and biodegradable polylactic acid with wax-like handling properties (BoneSeal®). The goal was to compare quantitative measures of bone healing between BoneSeal versus Bone wax. Materials & methods: BoneSeal and Bone wax were introduced into separate defects of a single porcine specimen. After 6 weeks, the defect sites were harvested for analysis. Results: Both groups had similar hemostatic action. The amount of new bone was significantly greater at 6 weeks in the BoneSeal group (38.05%) versus the Bone wax group (11.88%), p = 0.028. Conclusion: In this pilot study, BoneSeal had higher amounts of new bone formation compared with Bone wax.