Bone tissue engineering in the greater omentum is enhanced by a periosteal transplant in a miniature pig model.

AIM: Reconstruction of bone defects with autologous grafts has certain disadvantages. The aim of this study is to introduce a new type of living bioreactor for engineering of bone flaps and to evaluate the effect of different barrier membranes.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Scaffolds loaded with bone morphogenetic proteins and bone marrow aspirate wrapped with either a collagen membrane or a periosteal flap were implanted in the greater omentum of miniature pigs.

RESULTS: Both histological and radiographic evaluation showed proven bone formation and increased density after 8 and 16 weeks, with an enhanced effect of the periosteal transplant.

CONCLUSION: The greater omentum is a suitable bioreactor for bone tissue engineering. Endocultivation is both an innovative and promising approach in regenerative medicine.