Stromal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma improve bone allograft integration

Abstract

Early vascular invasion is a key factor in bone allograft incorporation. It may reduce the complications related to slow and incomplete bone integration. Bone-marrow-derived stromal stem cells associated with platelet-rich plasma are potent angiogenic inducers proven to release vascular endothelial growth factor. Our goal was to test whether the combination of stromal stem cells and platelet-rich plasma is able to increase massive allograft integration in a large animal model with sacrifice at 4 months. A critical defect was made in the mid-diaphysis of the metatarsal bone of 10 sheep; the study group received an allograft plus stromal stem cells, platelet-rich plasma, and collagen (six anim..