Abstract: Objective The purpose of the present study is to analyze effect of periosteum in angiogenesis of non-vascularied autogenous bone grafts. Methods Thirty-six New Zealand white rabbits were subjected to this study. Bilateral radial bones were partially removed as free bone grafts, half of which periostea were intact while rest of which periostea were peeled off. All grafts were implanted in the masseter muscle separately. At 3 days, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 weeks after surgery the rabbits were sacrificed and the specimens were procured for Chinese ink
perfusion, CD34 immunohistochemistry stain and tetracycline fluore-scence labeling. Microvessel density（MVD） and tetracycline fluorescence labeling intergrated optical density（Di ） were assessed in order to evaluate angiogenesis and rate of new bone formation of autogenous bone grafts. Results At 3 days and 1 week after surgery, MVD and Di of two groups had no significant difference（P>0.05）. Revascularization and new bone formation of both groups were found at 2 weeks after surgery. At 2, 3, 4 and 6 weeks after surgery, MVD and Di of test group were significantly higher than those of control group（P<0.05）. Conclusion Angiogenesis in non-vascularized autogenous bone graft was promoted when periosteum of graft was intact. Thereby followed osteogenesis was also accelerated.

Key words: periosteum, non-vascularized autogenous bone graft, revascularization, microvessel density