Histomorphometric evaluation of rifamycin combined with synthetic hydroxyapatite on bone healing in rabbit tibiae: a pilot study

Abstract

Objective: the objective of this study was to carry out histomorphometric analysis on the combination of rifamycin SV monosodium salt with synthetic hydroxyapatite for bone repair in rabbit tibiae. Material and Methods: twelve male white rabbits were equally divided into test group and control group. Drill hole defects were created in the tibia of the animals and were filled with either synthetic hydroxyapatite and physiological solution (control group) or with the combination of synthetic hydroxyapatite and rifamycin SV monosodium salt (test group). Moreover, all defects were covered by expanded polytetrafluoroethylene barriers. The animals were euthanized at 7, 14, or 21 days. The tissue sections were mounted onto slides (hematoxylin and eosin stains) and were analyzed using an optical microscope. Results: the tested association presented better microbiological local control, faster bone matrix deposition rate, and higher final total amount of bone matrix deposition. Conclusion: the combination of rifamycin with synthetic hydroxyapatite seems to be advantageous under the tested conditions, encouraging the development of new animal model studies.