SYNOPSIS
The aim of this study was to investigate the local osteogenic effect of fluvastatin incorporated in biodegradable gelatin-hydrogel (Flu-GH) as a carrier. Two bone defects were created in the calvarial bone of rats: a left defect in the experimental Flu-GH group and a right defect in the untreated control group. New bone formation was quantitatively analyzed over 21 days using a new micro-computed tomography system, the R-mCT®. Histological observation was also performed. The R-mCT® system enabled continuous observation of the dynamics of bone formation in the same animal over 21 days, revealing clear differences between the two groups. No significant differences in new bone formation were observed, however, between the two groups, except outside the bone defects. Further investigation is necessary to establish a suitable drug delivery system for fluvastatin.
Key words: fluvastatin, drug delivery system, micro-computed tomography, osteogenic