Micro-Computed Tomography Analysis of Fibroblast Growth Factor-2 Activity-Induced Healing of Dentocraniofacial Bones in Rodent Models: A Systematic Review

Objective: This study aimed to assess the impact of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) on dentocraniofacial bone healing in rodent models using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT). Materials and Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA 2020 guidelines. A literature search was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, and Wiley Online Library databases. This review included in vivo rodent studies that examined increased FGF-2 activity in craniofacial bones using micro-CT. Methodological quality and risk of bias were assessed using the ARRIVE 2.0 guidelines and the Systematic Review Center for Laboratory Animal Experimentation tool. Results: A total of 5 studies were included in this review. FGF-2 consistently enhanced bone regeneration, particularly during the proliferative phase, as evidenced by micro-CT analysis, which demonstrated increases in bone volume, mineralization, angiogenesis, and defect closure. However, heterogeneity in study design and imaging protocols, as well as limited reporting on randomization and blinding, resulted in an overall unclear to high risk of bias. Conclusion: FGF-2 promotes early dentocraniofacial bone regeneration, as effectively demonstrated by micro-CT analysis. However, the lack of craniofacial evidence and methodological inconsistencies highlight the need for standardized protocols and more rigorous study designs to enhance clinical translation.