ABSTRACT
This study was designed to identify the cells involved in the healing of the parietal bone defects after implantation of octacalcium phosphate [OCP] combined with bone matrix gelatin [BMG]. Sixteen young male Sprague Dawley rats [5-6 weeks age] were used. A full thickness standardized trephine defects, 5mm in diameter, was made in the rat parietal bone and OCP combined with BMG [in 1/4 ratio] was implanted into the defect. No OCP/BMG particles were implanted in control group that was otherwise treated identically. Cellular identification was carried out on days 7th and 14th after implantation, by light and transmission electron microscopy. Ultrastractural identification of cells involved in the healing of the defects in experimental group on day 7th after implantation, showed full secretory chondroblasts and also showed the integration of newly formed matrix with the defect margins. On day 14th after implantation the results revealed the typical osteoblasts that are active in the defect margins. In experimental group, bone defects were healed through intramembranous ossification route