11h30 Bone Tissue Engineering for Large Maxillofacial Bone Defects: Enhancing Quality and Quantity with Growth Factors

Keywords: bone tissue engineering, scaffolds, BMP2.

Objectives: large bone defects in the maxillofacial region can be reconstructed using autologous bone, allografts, xenografts, or synthetic substitutes such as hydroxyapatite or metallic implants. However, these approaches are often associated with limitations, including donor site morbidity, limited availability of bone, immune reactions, and infection risks. Bone Tissue Engineering (BTE) offers a promising alternative by enabling the regeneration of larger bone segments from smaller tissue samples. BTE approaches may involve creating bone tissue entirely in vitro or establishing a scaffold-supported intermediate construct in vitro that subsequently integrates and matures within the defect site. While orthopedic research has made significant advancements in BTE, the application of this knowledge to the maxillofacial region is still evolving.

Material and Methods: periosteum-derived cells were combined with scaffolds for structural support and growth factors, including BMP2 and BMP6, to enhance bone regeneration. The scaffolds served as temporary frameworks to maintain structural integrity while facilitating tissue maturation and integration with surrounding bone. The experimental setup was designed to evaluate the effects of these growth factors on the quality and quantity of new bone formation.

Results: the addition of BMP2 and BMP6 significantly improved bone formation outcomes. Scaffolds successfully provided structural support during the early phases of tissue regeneration, enabling effective integration and maturation of the engineered bone tissue. Enhanced bone quality and volume were observed, indicating the potential of this approach for clinical applications in maxillofacial reconstruction.

Conclusion: BTE presents a promising alternative to traditional bone reconstruction methods that are often limited by donor site morbidity, limited bone availability, immune reactions, and infection risks. While significant progress has been made in orthopedic BTE, its application in the maxillofacial region remains underexplored. This study demonstrates the efficacy of growth factors such as BMP2 and BMP6 in enhancing bone regeneration, providing insights into improved reconstructive strategies. Collaboration with orthopedic research teams is essential to adapt and refine BTE approaches for maxillofacial applications, ensuring better patient outcomes.