Phase-Specific Resveratrol Supplementation in Distraction Osteogenesis: Supporting the Redox Environment of Bone Healing.

INTRODUCTION: This experimental study investigates the correlation between resveratrol administration during the endochondral ossification process of distraction osteogenesis (DO) for the treatment of bone defects and the rate of systemic and local oxidative stress in a rabbit model of femoral DO. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty New Zealand white rabbits underwent femoral osteotomy and external fixation. The experimental group (n=9) received oral resveratrol (10 mg/kg/day) during the distraction phase (days 10-20), while controls (n = 9) received no antioxidant. Blood and regenerated tissues were analyzed for oxidative stress markers (8‑hydroxy‑2'-deoxyguanosine {8‑OHdG}, total antioxidant capacity {TAC}, and glutathione {GSH}) at multiple time points. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were performed at the endpoint. RESULTS: Resveratrol significantly reduced 8-OHdG levels and preserved TAC and GSH concentrations during the distraction phase (p<0.05). Tissue staining revealed decreased oxidative DNA damage in the regenerate zone of treated animals. No significant radiographic differences in regenerate density were observed at day 49. CONCLUSIONS: Resveratrol administration during distraction mitigated oxidative stress both systemically and locally, suggesting a cytoprotective effect on bone-regenerating cells. Although radiological differences were not apparent within the study period, the redox-modulating properties of resveratrol may support more favorable regenerative outcomes over time. These findings justify further investigation into phase-specific antioxidant protocols in DO, including human application.