Multislice CT-guided evaluation of collagen–chitosan composite in promoting antebrachiocarpal arthrodesis in a rabbit model

Abstract Background Arthrodesis is a critical procedure for restoring stability and relieving pain in severely damaged joints. Successful bone fusion remains a significant challenge, often necessitating the use of biomaterials to enhance healing. Collagen and chitosan, two natural polymers with established biocompatibility and osteoconductive properties, have shown promise in regenerative medicine applications. The present study aimed to evaluate the synergistic effect of a collagen-chitosan composite on bone fusion of the antebrachiocarpal joint in a rabbit model. Multislice CT morphometrical analysis was utilized to assess bone healing and fusion, offering detailed insights into the material’s efficacy in promoting joint stabilization and bone regeneration. Materials and methods Twelve healthy male New Zealand White rabbits (4.0 ± 0.3 months old) with a mean body weight of 2.5 ± 0.5 kg were used. These animals underwent curettage of the articular cartilage down to the subchondral bone. The rabbits were then randomly assigned into two groups: a control group (C), in which no composite was applied, and a treatment group, in which collagen-chitosan scaffolds were utilized (Col/Cs). Joint fusion was postoperatively assessed using a multislice detector computed tomography (MSCT). Result (MSCT) revealed progressive enhancements in the collagen–chitosan (Col/Cs) group over 12 weeks. Radial cortical thickness and bone mineral density (BMD) were significantly higher at week 12 in the Col/Cs group (1.31 ± 0.10 mm vs. 1.03 ± 0.18 mm; p = 0.0086, and ~ 760 HU vs. ~510 HU; p = 0.0055, respectively). Intra-articular mineral density (IATMD) increased markedly at week 1 (p < 0.0001), decreased at week 6 (p < 0.0001), and rose again by week 12 (p < 0.0001), while the control group showed a gradual, non-significant increase. Joint space width decreased significantly in the Col/Cs group by week 6 (~ 0.6 mm vs. ~0.9 mm; p = 0.0034) and remained lower at week 12 (~ 0.55 mm vs. ~0.7 mm; p = 0.0062). Fusion ratio reached ~ 65% in the Col/Cs group compared to ~ 35% in controls (p < 0.0001). CBMD decreased in both groups by week 1 postoperatively but recovered more effectively in the Col/Cs group. By week 12, CBMD was significantly higher in the Col/Cs group (~ 1000 HU) than in controls (~ 950 HU; P < 0.0006). (UBMD) was initially similar (~ 780 HU), but by week 1, the Col/Cs group maintained higher values (~ 760 HU vs. ~620 HU; p < 0.0001), and this inclination continued through week 12 (~ 750 HU vs. ~680 HU; p = 0.001). Conclusion The results of the present study indicate that the collagen–chitosan composite enhances bone fusion and joint stability in a rabbit model of antebrachiocarpal arthrodesis, demonstrating both innovation and potential clinical applicability.