Effects of Collagen- and Arginine-Fortified Osteokine Supplementation on Fracture Healing

Abstract

IntroductionDelayed union or nonunion is an important clinical challenge for orthopedic surgeons. In addition to the main treatment algorithms, the use of nutritional supplements is increasingly common. In this study, we investigated the effects of nutritional supplements fortified with arginine and collagen on fracture healing. Materials and methodsTwenty-four rats with femur fractures were divided into experimental and control groups. Intramedullary fixation was performed in both groups. 20 ml/kg nutritional supplement was given to the experimental group. Radiological examination was performed at third and sixth weeks, and histopathological examination was performed at the sixth week. ResultsNo statistically significant difference was found between the radiological scores of the groups at the third and sixth weeks. Nutritional supplement affected the histological properties of callus. Histological evidence of bone healing was observed by the sixth week in both groups but the score was higher in nutritional supplement group. A statistically significant difference was found between the histopathological scores of the groups at the sixth week. ConclusionArginine-and type two collagen-augmented traditional nutritional supplements may help to achieve more successful results in fracture healing.

Oral L-arginine supplementation for fracture healing: a systematic review of preclinical studies

“…Type II collagen plays an essential role in enchondral healing and soft callus formation, leading to fracture healing. This shows that L-arginine may be a potential supplement for enhancing fracture healing (13).…”