The efficacy of the bone markers osteocalcin and the carboxyterminal cross-linked telopeptide of type-I collagen in evaluating osteogenesis in a canine crural lengthening model

The aim of the present study was to determine the efficacy of the bone markers osteocalcin (OC) and carboxyterminal cross-linked telopeptide of type-I collagen (ICTP) in evaluating new bone formation in the dog, using commercially available immunoassay kits. Dogs were randomly divided into three groups and a circular external skeletal fixation system (CESF) was mounted on the tibia. In the first group a distraction osteogenesis procedure of the crus was performed. The second group received an osteotomy without crural lengthening, whereas the third group served as a sham-operated control. Bone formation was assessed using densitometric image analysis of crural radiographs. Despite significant differences in the amount of newly formed bone, this finding was not reflected in the plasma levels of OC and ICTP. In conclusion, OC and ICTP were not efficacious as markers of bone formation and resorption during osteogenesis in this canine model.