The effect of teicoplanin on fracture healing: an experimental study

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the effect of teicoplanin on fracture healing stereologically and histopatologically. Materials and methods: Twenty male Wistar albino rats were separated into two as the study (teicoplanin) and control groups. After intramedullary fixation of the right tibia of all the rats with 0.5 mm Kirschner wire under general anesthesia, standard closed shaft fractures were created using fracture formation apparatus. Teicoplanin (10 mg/kg) and saline were administered intraperitoneally to the study and control groups, respectively. Control radiographs were taken at the end of the procedure and the rats were sacrificed after 28 days. New bone and connective tissue volumes were calculated on obtained tissue samples using unbiased stereological and histopathological techniques. Results: It was observed that teicoplanin increased the formation of bone, vascularization, and connective tissue. There was a statistically significant difference between the two groups in respect of bone and vascular total volume (p<0.05). Although an increase was observed in connective tissue total volume, no statistically significant difference was detected between the two groups (p>0.05). Conclusion: In addition to its antibacterial effect, teicoplanin may increase new bone formation; thus, it may be used safely in the treatment of bone defects accompanied with infection.