Evaluation of regenerative processes in a rat model of mandibular condyle defect using in vivo micro X-ray computed tomography

To determine whether the periosteum influences mandibular head regeneration after condylectomy in rats. male Wistar rats, the periosteum of part of the mandibular head was preserved or removed and the mandibular head was excised up to a section of the neck of the mandible. Radiological and histological findings were evaluated 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 8 weeks later. Although bone regeneration was observed during the first postoperative week in both groups, restoration occurred from the bone stump and from a position distant from the bone stump when the periosteum was conserved. When the periosteum was removed, restoration occurred from the bone stump only. Regenerated bone mass was greater with the preserved periosteum. Bone mass increased until the sixth week after condylectomy in the periosteum preservation group. Our results confirm the importance of the periosteum in mandibular head regeneration after condylectomy in rats.