Mandibular Fractures Fixed with PDLLA/Nano-HA Compound Plates

Objective: The purpose of this research was to investigate the feasibility of PDLLA/nano-HA compound plate in internal fixation of mandibular fracture. 18 New Zealand rabbits were used in this study. Methods: Bilateral mandible fractures were fixed with PDLLA/nano-HA compound plate and PDLLA plate respectively. Clinical observation, x-ray photograph and microscope observation and the expression of type V collagen were studied during 2 to 24 weeks after operation. Results: The results showed that during the stage of bone healing, the quality of callus in the side of compound plate was significantly more than that of the other side. The histological study showed that osteoblasts and fibroblasts were more active in compound plate side in the early healing stage. There was no significant difference of the expression lever of col V between the two group during 2-4 weeks after operation. But the positive signals of col V decreased more quickly in the compound side. Conclusions: PDLLA/nano-HA compound plate has a proper degradation time and can promote bone pormation. It is more effective and safer than PDLLA palates when used in mandible fracture.