Timed-release system for periosteal expansion osteogenesis using NiTi mesh and absorbable material in the rabbit calvaria

This study aimed to improve bone regeneration using a timed-release system for periosteal expansion osteogenesis (TIME-PEO) using a shape memory alloy (SMA) mesh device and absorbable thread in a rabbit model. Materials and methods: Twelve rabbits were used in this study. The device was inserted under the periosteum at the forehead, then pushed, bent, and attached to the bone surface and fixed with an absorbable thread. Rabbits were divided into groups Cl (5 weeks postoperatively without dynamic elevation), C2 (8 weeks postoperatively without dynamic elevation), T1 (5 weeks postoperatively from TIME-PEO), and T2 (8 weeks postoperatively from TIME-PEO). Newly formed bone was evaluated histologically and radiographically. Results: The newly formed bone volume to elevated bone volume ratio was 6.1% in Cl, 21.9% in T1 15.5% in C2 and 36.0% in T2. These quantitative data indicate that TIME-PEO group had a significantly higher volume than that of the control group (P <0.05). Histologically, multiple dome-shaped bones, outlined by thin and scattered trabeculae, over the original bone surface were evident in the T group. Conclusion: This technique appears to be a promising clinical alternative for alveolar bone augmentation and introduces the new concept of "dynamic guided bone regeneration" for atrophic alveolar bone.