Reconstruction of Experimental Tracheal Cartilage Defects with Free Periosteum: A Preliminary Report

Abstract

Free periosteal grafts were used in the reconstruction of tracheal cartilage defects in growing rabbits. The periosteum was stripped from the tibia of the same animal and transplanted to an artificial cartilage defect created overlying the tracheal mucosa by resecting the anterior parts of 4–8 cartilage rings. A satisfactory postoperative course was followed by clinical examinations. The bone formation was studied by serial x-ray examinations, macroscopical observations and histological sections. Bone formation occurred constantly and supporting bony ring was achieved. In some series multiple bony rings were obtained with the use of separate periosteal grafts. The possible clinical use is discussed.