Evaluating reduced bone bridge formation through a modified rat epiphyseal plate injury model

Abstract

Approximately, one-third of all pediatric fractures involve the metaphyseal region, causing damage to the growth plate (also known as the epiphyseal plate), leading to unwanted bone repair tissue through the growth plate, known as a bone bridge (or bony bar). In some cases, the bony bar affects the longitudinal growth of long bones, resulting in limb shortening and angulation deformity and affecting children's physical and mental health. In clinical practice, the primary methods used to prevent the formation of bone bridges are fat interposition, anatomic reduction, and appropriate fixation. Once a bone bridge is formed, resection is the main treatment, but its formation usually takes one to two months, and limb shortening and angulation deformity usually take longer or even years. Therefore, prevention has become the focus of clinical and basic research. In this study, a modified rat central growth plate drilling injury model of the proximal tibia was established based on the original research using a silicone gel membrane to seal the holes. The modified model was provided for the study of reducing bone bridge formation. The hole's volume was evaluated using intraoperative and postoperative imaging examinations to determine the maximum volume of drug administration. Prevention of bone bridge formation was achieved using noninvasive medication; its effect was verified using various methods, providing a new in vivo animal experiment for the prevention and treatment of bone bridge formation after epiphyseal plate injury to guide clinical practice.