Cow bones could offer cheap alternative for human jaw repair, dental treatment, researchers say
Researchers at Otago University have developed a method to extract hydroxyapatite from cow bones to serve as a cost-effective scaffold for human jaw and dental repairs. The process is designed to be environmentally friendly and safe, effectively removing proteins and fats to eliminate disease risks.
Why it matters
This innovation could significantly lower the cost and complexity of bone graft surgeries, making dental and medical reconstruction more accessible.
Left over cow bones could offer a more cost-effective way to build back human jaws, after successful trials overseas.
Otago University scientists are working on ways to use minerals in the bones for medical and dental bone grafts.
Grafts were often taken from somewhere else on a patient's body to help repair gaps or holes left by the removal of tumours, often requiring multiple surgeries, and raising costs.
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However, scientists have developed a method to extract hydroxyapatite from cow bone, and use it as a scaffolding to help promote new growth.
Researcher Jithendra Ratnayake told Checkpoint it was the same mineral found in human bone and teeth.
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