Radiological and histopathological study of the effects of Kakuti plant (Ziziphora tenuior) on bone defect repair in rabbit animal model

This study aimed to assess the radiological and histopathological effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of the Kakuti ( Ziziphora tenuior ) plant on bone healing in a rabbit model. The current study involved 10 male New Zealand white rabbits, aged 12–18 months with a mean weight of 1.1-1.7 kg. The rabbits were randomly divided into two groups: a control group and a treatment group. The rabbits were anesthetized via intramuscular injection of a mixture containing xylazine and ketamine; then, a 3 mm diameter and depth defect was created in the radius bone. In the sample group (n=5), 1 g of Kakuti extract was placed inside the defect cavity, and the skin and muscles were sutured as usual. Both groups were evaluated radiologically and histopathologically at two- and seven-weeks post-surgery. Results showed no significant difference between the two groups in callus formation, healing, or remodeling on radiographs at these time points (p> 0.05). Histopathological findings indicated no significant difference in connective tissue formation between the control and treatment groups at either time point, while bone tissue formation showed a significant difference (p> 0.05). These findings suggest that Ziziphora tenuior extract accelerates bone healing in the rabbit radius but does not significantly influence cartilage healing.