Biphasic ß-TCP mixed with silicon increases bone formation in critical site defects in rabbit calvaria.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the bone regeneration of critical size defects in rabbit calvarias filled with ß-TCP doped with silicon. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty-one New Zealand rabbits were used in this study. Two critical size defects were created in the parietal bones. Three experimental groups were evaluated: Test A (HA/ß-TCP granules alone), Test B (HA/ß-TCP granules plus 3% silicon), Control (empty defect). The animals were sacrificed at 8 and 12 weeks. Evaluation was performed by µCT analysis and histomorphometry. RESULTS: µCT evaluation showed higher volume reduction in Test A group compared with Test B (P < 0.05). The Test B group showed the highest values for cortical closure and bone formation around the particles, followed by Test A and controls (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Within the limitations of this animal study, it can be concluded that HA/ß-TCP plus 3% silicon increases bone formation in critical size defects in rabbit calvarias, and the incorporation of 3% silicon reduces the resorption rate of the HA/ß-TCP granules.