Journal of Surgery

Systematic Review of Comparative Histological Studies of Alveolar and Symphyseal Bone Healing in Animals

Abstract

Mendouga Menye Coralie, Nkolo Tolo Francis Daniel*, Ndjoh Jules Julien, Omam Nathalie Rachel and Mendimi Nkodo Joseph Marie

Introduction: Bone healing, a fundamental process in oral surgery, varies from one anatomical site to another. The alveolar bone and the mandibular symphysis, although both involved in masticatory function, differ in embryological origin, vascularization and structure. This review aims to compare bone healing processes in these two sites, based on histological studies in animals, in order to identify similarities and differences, as well as factors influencing healing.

Materials and methods: A literature search was conducted in the PubMed, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar databases, using the keywords ?bone healing?, ?dental socket?, ?mandibular symphysis?, ?histology? and ?animal?. Selected studies had to include histological analysis of alveolar and symphyseal bone healing in animals, allowing direct comparison of the two sites.

Exclusion criteria included in vitro studies, clinical studies and studies not providing comparative histological data.

Results: The selected studies revealed similarities in the healing process, including the sequence of events (inflammation, granulation tissue formation, osteogenesis and remodeling) and the cell types involved (osteoblasts, osteoclasts). However, significant differences were observed. Alveolar healing tends to be faster and more intense, with more abundant bone formation in the early phases. The mandibular symphysis heals more slowly, but with greater long-term bone remodeling. Vascularization and mechanical stress seem to play a crucial role in these differences.

Conclusion: This comparative review revealed significant variations in alveolar and symphyseal bone healing in animals. Alveolar healing, which is more rapid and intense, is suited to the rapid repair of post-extraction defects, while the mandibular symphysis, with its slower but more extensive remodeling, reflects its role in long-term growth and adaptation. These results underline the importance of considering the anatomical and functional specificities of each site when planning surgical interventions and designing biomaterials.

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