Stiffness of callus tissue during distraction osteogenesis

SummaryIntroductionThe treatment of limb length discrepancies by distraction osteogenesis represents a significant challenge of predicting the load-bearing capacity. Today, in vivo stiffness measurements by applying compressive, bending or torsional stress on the callus tissue are quantitative methods. Therefore, it is relevant to know how regenerating bone tissue regains its various stiffness characteristics. Knowledge of the development of each type of stiffness is important in order to prevent an over- or underestimation of the actual patients’ load-bearing capacity.HypothesisVarious types of stiffness are supposed to evolve similar during consolidation.Materials and methodsIn this ex vivo study, an analysis of torsional, compressive and bending stiffness of callus tissue during consolidation was performed on 26 sheep tibiae after distraction osteogenesis.ResultsThis study indicates differences within the quantity of stiffnesses during consolidation.DiscussionThus, in vivo stiffness measurements have to be interpreted carefully in order to prevent false estimation of the load-bearing capacity of new bone.