[Long-term outcomes after using porous hydroxyapatite ceramics (Endobon) for surgical management of fractures of the head of the tibia].

Endobon is a porous hydroxyapatite ceramic which has been used as a bone replacement substitute since 1989. Currently there are no data available reflecting long-term effects of Endobon in human bone grafting. In order to assess such effects 35 patients with fractures of the proximal tibia were studied retrospectively over a period up to 91 months. The metaphyseal defects were filled by Endobon and fractures were stabilized by internal plate fixation subsequently. A secondary loss of reduction due to mechanical failure of the bone replacement material did not occur even after removal of metal implants. No histological signs of resorption or degradation could be found 18 months after application. Our data show that Endobon provides good mechanical properties during a long term follow-up and can be recommended as a suitable therapeutic option versus cancellous bone graft.