ROLE OF PERIOSTEUM ON THE FATE OF PEDICLE OSTEOCUTANEOUS GRAFTS

Recent studies show pedicle osteocutaneous grafts have remained viable and may be actively involved in the mechanics of bone repair. The role of periosteum in the survival of pedicle-assisted bone grafts was investigated. Osteocutaneous grafts were developed in dogs to isolate the implant from normal recipient bone. Free bone grafts were used as controls and a group of pedicle periosteal grafts were studied as potential sources of bone formation. Specimens were evaluated at regular intervals over 40 wk. The pedicle bone grafts maintained their viability and developed vigorous osteoneogenesis. The process was progressive and eventually resulted in partial substitution of the original graft by new bone of periosteal origin. The free bone grafts were resorbed and no bone formation was obtained in pedicle periosteum specimens. Under experimental conditions apparently no bone contact is needed to maintain the viability of pedicle osteocutaneous grafts. The periosteum apparently has the leading role in the restructuring process of these grafts.