Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To analyze the histological behavior of bovine lyophilized grafts (BLG) produced according to a protocol developed by the first author, in humans over a 49-month period by measuring the graft/bone neoformation ratio in relation to the total mineralized area. METHODS: This was a case series involving 12 patients: eight females (66%) and four males (34%), totaling 13 biopsies. BLG was used, and surgical reintervention was subsequently required during the period 2000 to 2011. The slides produced were stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE), were analyzed by a pathologist and were digitized for the proposed evaluation. RESULTS: The mean age was 57 years and the mean follow-up was 49 months (range: 6-115). The average proportion of BLG was 42% (range: 13-85) and neoformed bone, 58% (range: 15-87) in relation to the total area mineralized. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated that the BLG used presented osteoconductive characteristics and biocompatibility. BLG is a therapeutic option that can be used in orthopedic surgery in which bone defects need to be filled.