Combination of Root Surface Modification with BMP-2 and Collagen Hydrogel Scaffold Implantation for Periodontal Healing in Beagle Dogs

Objective : Biomodification of the root surface plays a major role in periodontal wound healing. Root surface modification with bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) stimulates bone and cementum-like tissue formation; however, severe ankylosis is simultaneously observed. Bio-safe collagen hydrogel scaffolds may therefore be useful for supplying periodontal ligament cells and preventing ankylosis. We examined the effects of BMP modification in conjunction with collagen hydrogel scaffold implantation on periodontal wound healing in dogs.

Material and methods: The collagen hydrogel scaffold was composed of type I collagen sponge and collagen hydrogel. One-wall infrabony defects (5 mm in depth, 3 mm in width) were surgically created in six beagle dogs. In the BMP/Col group, BMP-2 was applied to the root surface (loading dose; 1 µg/µl), and the defects were filled with collagen hydrogel scaffold. In the BMP or Col group, BMP-2 coating or scaffold implantation was performed. Histometric parameters were evaluated at 4 weeks after surgery.

Results: Single use of BMP stimulated formation of alveolar bone and ankylosis. In contrast, the BMP/Col group frequently enhanced reconstruction of periodontal attachment including cementum-like tissue, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. The amount of new periodontal ligament in the BMP/Col group was significantly greater when compared to all other groups. In addition, ankylosis was rarely observed in the BMP/Col group.

Conclusion: The combination method using root surface modification with BMP and collagen hydrogel scaffold implantation facilitated the reestablishment of periodontal attachment. BMP-related ankylosis was suppressed by implantation of collagen hydrogel.