Pre-Clinical Evaluation of Biological Bone Substitute Materials for Application in Highly Loaded Skeletal Sites

The development of bone substitute materials (BSMs) intended for load-bearing bone defects is highly complicated, as biological and mechanical requirements are often contradictory. In recent years, biological BSMs have been developed which allow for a more efficient integration of the material with the surrounding osseous environment and, hence, a higher mechanical stability of the treated defect. However, while these materials are promising, they are still far from ideal. Consequently, extensive preclinical experimentation is still required. The current review provides a comprehensive overview of biomechanical considerations relevant for the design of biological BSMs. Further, the preclinical evaluation of biological BSMs intended for application in highly loaded skeletal sites is discussed. The selected animal models and implantation site should mimic the pathophysiology and biomechanical loading patterns of human bone as closely as possible. In general, sheep are among the most frequently selected animal models for the evaluation of biomaterials intended for highly loaded skeletal sites. Regarding the anatomical sites, segmental bone defects created in the limbs and spinal column are suggested as the most suitable. Furthermore, the outcome measurements used to assess biological BSMs for regeneration of defects in heavily loaded bone should be relevant and straightforward. The quantitative evaluation of bone defect healing through ex vivo biomechanical tests is a valuable addition to conventional in vivo tests, as it determines the functional efficacy of BSM-induced bone healing. Finally, we conclude that further standardization of preclinical studies is essential for reliable evaluation of biological BSMs in highly loaded skeletal sites.