Abstract:

In fractures developing on the basis of the nerve conduction loss occurring after spinal trauma, healing and bone metabolism demonstrate departure from normal. The objective of this study is to study the type of effect which the interruption in the nerve conduction has on bone metabolism and bone healing and to develop relevant mechanisms. 45 Wistar Albino rats were randomized and divided into 3 groups. In Group 1 (n=20), a close fracture was created at the right tibia following spinal trauma at the lumbar level. In Group 2 (n=20), a fracture was created without spinal trauma. Finally, Group 3 (n=5) was made up of rats with no intervention. On the 35th day of the study, rats were sacrificed; blood samples were taken and fractured extremities were removed. Materials were histopathologically and biochemically examined. Significant weight loss was detected postoperatively in Group 1. In the same group, blood and callus BALP levels indicating bone formation were observed to be high. A significant decrease was also identified in callus calcium levels. Employed as a determinant of bone resorption, hydroxyproline levels did not demonstrate any significant differences. On the other hand, upon histopathological examination, callus size was observed to be significantly larger in the trauma group than in the other group, while the degree of maturation was lower than that of the control group. Interruption of nerve conduction induced by spinal trauma is observed to give way to an increase in callus size, despite its negative effect on the mineralization phase of bone healing.

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