Naser Sargolzaie - Department of Periodontics, Dental Material Research Center, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
Javad Sargolzaie - Department of chemical engineer, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Iran
Nasrollah Saghravanian - Oral and Maxillofacial Disease Research Center, Department of Pathology, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

Introduction: Beta calcium sulfate hemihydrate (BCSH), which is commonly known as Gypsum plaster has long been used as bone graft material because of its excellent biocompatibility and the ability for bone regeneration. Several methods have been used for the preparation of BCSH, including heat treatment of calcium sulfate dihydrate with water, application of inorganic acids or condensed inorganic salt solutions under high or atmospheric pressure. As a bone graft, it is preferred that the BCSH powder has a granular form for the purpose of manipulation, bio-mechanical properties and ease of injection. Methods: For this study granules of BCSH in the size of 500 to 700 micrometers were manufactured and sterilized using gamma ray. For assessing the regeneration of thismaterial, six rabbits were selected and granules were injected in the bone defects that were made using diamond bur in their skull under general anesthesia. Biopsies for histological evaluations were done 3, 6, 9, 12, 14 and 16 months following surgery. Results: At the third month time-point, remodeling of the BCSH was evident, and complete newly formed bone was seen in the region of the defect. Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrated that BCSH had a good biocompatibility without inducing an inflammatory response and promoted bone healing.

Beta calcium sulfate hemihydrate, Bone graft, granule