Purpose of review: In this review we summarize some of the most recent research in the area of local bone regeneration. These innovations may be relevant in the orthopaedic treatment of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, or other inflammatory arthridities, as such patients often present with inadequate bone stock.
Recent findings: Bone grafting remains the standard treatment for bone deficiency. Several new approaches, such as the use of concentrated blood products or osteoprogenitor cells in conjunction with grafts, have been developed but remain to be tested clinically. Experimental studies have elucidated important aspects of the biology of bone graft remodeling and osteoprogenitor cell differentiation. Materials that can serve as graft alternatives continue to be developed. Positive experimental findings have resulted from combinations of such materials with osteoprogenitor cells or osteoinductive factors such as bone morphogenetic proteins.
Summary: While few studies to date have examined the specific use of these new strategies in the setting of rheumatoid arthritis, many hold promise for patients with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory and metabolic conditions that affect bone quality and quantity.