The combined use of carbon nanotubes with synthetic ceramics enhances posterolateral fusion: an experimental study in a rat spinal fusion model.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of carbon nanotubes (CNTs)/ HA-tricalcium phosphate (TCP) composite in a posterolateral spinal fusion model.

METHODS

At first, CNTs and CNTs/HA-TCP composites were prepared. Twenty adult male Sprague Dawley rats were randomized into four groups with five rats in each group. Decortication was carried out in standard manner in all animals. Group 1 (only decortication), group 2 (CNTs), group 3 (HA-TCP) and group 4 (CNTs/HA-TCP) were formed. Eight weeks later, all animals were killed and obtained fusion segments were evaluated by manual palpation, histomorphometry and micro-computed tomography (mCT).

RESULTS

In all evaluations, highest fusion values were obtained in Group 4. In mCT investigations, bone volume/ tissue volume (BV/TV) ratio was found to be significantly higher in composite group (group 4) only compared to ceramic group (group 3) (p < 0.001). Although in Group 2, in which only CNTs were used, the ratio was found to be statistically significantly higher than group 1(p < 0.001), the difference was not considered as significant in terms of fusion and in addition in group 2, CNTs were completely surrounded by fibrous tissue, i.e., no bone formation was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

The CNTs/HA-TCP composite is a promising synthetic bone graft substitute for spinal fusion. Although CNTs are inadequate in producing spinal fusion when they are used alone, due to their high biocompatibility due to their high biocompatibility, and multiple effect on bone regeneration, they seem to increase fusion rates significantly when they are used in combination with ceramic-based synthetic grafts.