The effect of Cox-2 specific inhibition on direct fracture healing in the rabbit tibia

David J. Hak, University of Colorado at Denver and Health Sciences Center
Kurt S. Schulz, Burlington Veterinary Specialists
Behrang Khoie, University of Louisville
Scott J. Hazelwood, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo

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Copyright © 2011 Springer. The original publication is available at http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00776-010-0016-0.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Cox-2 administration on direct (primary) fracture healing.

Methods: A transverse tibial osteotomy was created in adult male rabbits and rigidly fixed in compression using a 2.7-mm dynamic compression plate. Animals were randomized to receive either rofecoxib (12.5 mg orally per day) or placebo. Animals were killed at 4 weeks and fracture healing assessed by mechanical testing.

Results: There were no significant differences between the control and Cox-2 treated animals in terms of mechanical strength at 4 weeks. There was a high complication rate of peri-implant fractures during the daily medication administration.

Conclusion: The immediate administration of a Cox-2 specific inhibitor did not impair primary (direct) bone healing at the dose administered in this rabbit tibial osteotomy model.