Abstract
Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of autoclaving and pasteurization on bone healing. \r\n\r\nMethods: Twenty-five full-grown male rabbits were included in the study; all 25 had bone blocks resected and reimplanted. In group 1, bone blocks were autoclaved; in group 2, bone blocks were pasteurized; and in group 3 (controls), resected bone blocks were reimplanted without sterilization. \r\n\r\nResults: Heiple scores of the proximal parts of the fusion surfaces in group 1, group 2, and group 3 were 12.8±0.4, 6.8±1.2, and 10.2±1.9, respectively. Heiple scores of the distal parts of the fusion surfaces in group 1, group 2, and group 3 were 10.8±0.8, 6.0±1.1, and 9.8±1.5, respectively. Differences in radiologic scores were not statistically significant between the groups for proximal or distal fusion surfaces at 3 and 6 weeks. \r\n\r\nConclusion: In conclusion, pasteurization has a less negative effect on bone healing than autoclaving, and can be considered for bone sterilization in certain circumstances.