The role of growth factors in foot and ankle surgery

摘要

Over the past few decades, orthopaedic research has focused on understanding the structural and functional biology of the major components of the musculoskeletal system. More recently, investigation into the molecular aspects of the healing process has ied to the development of various biologic agents, both autologous and recombinant, that have the potential to maximize the natural healing response and optimize favorable outcomes with respect to bone and soft-tissue restoration in patients with orthopaedic injuries. These products, collectively known as orthobiologics, have gained recent growing interest and include platelet rich plasma (PRP), bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), platelet-derived growth factor (PDCF) and various other growth factors and secretory proteins that are fundamental in promoting bone and soft-tissue healing. While the utility of these growth factors has been well-described in various fields of surgery, there is a paucity of data to support or oppose their use in foot and ankle surgery. This review article aims to describe the basic science and clinical data currently available to better understand the potential role of growth factors in foot and ankle surgery.