73. Demineralized bone matrix: A cheap solution for ulna defect healing in a Pigeon
Abstract
Purpose of this study was to find out whether demineralized bone matrix (DBM) could be used for
ulna defect healing in pigeons. For this study total 12 pigeons were purchased then divided into
three groups and placing four birds per group. Study duration was 3, 6 and 12 weeks post bone
grafting. A 1-cm bone defect was created in left ulna only then DBM graft was placed in between
the ulna defect and graft was covered with host tissue. Surgical wound was closed with Vicryl 3-
0 suture material. Then ulna fracture was fixed with four external skeletal fixation pins (type-1).
The DBM graft was prepared from donor pigeon bone using hydrochloric acid (0.6M). DBM bone
graft healing was evaluated with radiography and histology techniques. Results of radiographic
assessment showed no bone graft healed after 3 and 6 weeks post-surgery, but after 12 weeks of
healing, 50% birds showed bone union. While, histological observations showed DBM graft was
successfully incorporated in defect site and formed some new bone formation after 3 and 6 weeks
of surgery. After 12 weeks of graft healing there was increased new bone formation and good graft
incorporation. DBM graft is easy to prepare and could be useful for defect healing in birds because
it have bone morphogenic proteins (BMP-2). This study investigated that DBM graft showed
potential effect for new bone formation and best graft for defect healing in pigeon.
Keywords: Pigeon; Allograft; Demineralized bone matrix; Bone union; Bone formation
