Antibiotic-containing collagen for the treatment of bone defects

Recent studies have explored the use of biodegradable implants that incorporate antibiotics for the treatment of bone infections. In this study, a biodegradable composite containing bovine collagen and teicoplanin (Targobone®) was used for the treatment of mandibular nonunion defects. Patients with mandibular nonunion defects subsequent to osteosynthesis were treated with Targobone® (n = 9) or with autologous bone grafts (n = 12). Clinical and radiological evaluations were performed preoperatively, immediately postoperatively, and 4 and 24 weeks postoperatively. Bone regeneration was defined relative to the original defect area in the panoramic radiograph by using image analysis software. In the Targobone® group, the defect area decreased to 78% (SD ± 21.8%) of the preoperative area within 4 weeks and to 21% (SD ± 9.7%) of the preoperative area within 24 weeks. In the autologous bone graft group, the defect area decreased to 69% (SD ± 32.4%) of the preoperative area within 4 weeks and to 4.7% (SD ± 5.6%) of the preoperative area within 24 weeks. Thus, Targobone® is a promising option for the treatment of bone defects. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2007