Chitosan 3D scaffolds with resolvin D1 for vertebral arthrodesis: a pilot study

PurposeOver the last years, the number of vertebral arthrodesis has been steadily increasing. The use of iliac crest bone autograft remains the gold standard for bone graft substitute in these procedures. However, this solution has some side effects, such as the problem of donor site morbidity indicating that there is a real need for adequate alternatives. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of chitosan (Ch) porous 3D scaffolds incorporated with resolvin D1 (RvD1) as an alternative implant to iliac bone autograft.MethodsWe have performed bilateral posterolateral lumbar vertebral arthrodesis in a rat animal model. Three experimental groups were used: (i) non-operated animals; (ii) animals implanted with Ch scaffolds incorporated with RvD1 and (iii) animals implanted with iliac bone autograft.ResultsThe collagenous fibrous capsule formed around the Ch scaffolds with RvD1 is less dense when compared with the iliac bone autograft, suggesting an important anti-inflammatory effect of RvD1. Additionally, new bone formation was observed in the Ch scaffolds with RvD1.ConclusionThese results demonstrate the potential of these scaffolds for bone tissue repair applications.

Automated summary

This pilot study evaluated the feasibility of chitosan porous 3D scaffolds incorporated with resolvin D1 as an alternative to iliac bone autograft. The results showed that the chitosan scaffolds with resolvin D1 demonstrated potential in inhibiting inflammation and promoting new bone formation, suggesting their usefulness for bone tissue repair applications.