Objective      To evaluate the effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on the repair of canine jaw defects by porous tantalum particles.       Methods      A total of 36 mandibular defect models were established in 6 Beagle dogs

and the unilateral bone defects were implanted with porous tantalum (group A) and porous tantalum loaded with bFGF (group B). The control group did not perform intervention. Mandibular specimens were harvested in 4

8 and 12 weeks postoperatively to carry out gross observation

X-ray analysis

fluorescence microscopy and histological examinations

and the ossification in the defects at different time was observed.       Results      After 12 weeks

the porous tantalum particles were surrounded by new bone in the experimental groups

and the defect area was still visible in the control group. The continuity of the bone around the porous tantalum particles in group B was superior than that in group A at the end of 12 weeks. New bone formation area in group B was greater than that in group A in 4 weeks after operation (P0.05)

while group A was greater than group B at the end of 8 weeks (P0.05).       Conclusion      When repairing the bone defects with porous tantalum particles

bFGF can promote the osteogensis

and shorten the bone healing time.